Board Of Directors
BMTL board members serve a three-year term with monthly meetings and approximately 5 to 10 hours of participation monthly. Work groups focus on corporate and individual donors, finance, marketing and media, school applications and outreach, social media and crowdsourcing and website updates as well as the Quarter Notes newsletter. All board members participate in the annual instrument donation drive, fundraising and the instrument donation presentation to schools. We especially welcome candidates with an affiliation or experience working with minority organizations or in the music or education fields.
Do you have a passion for music and music education?
Consider joining our creative and cooperative board.
“My students, I have learned, respond much better when I let them know that I understand why they are frustrated than if I tell them to deal with it and move on. They need compassion more than anything else at the moment, and it is our job as music educators to provide that for them.”
Cañon City Schools
Dr. Steve Holley
Executive Director
Steve is a lifelong musician and educator who has performed over 10,000 gigs worldwide, authored influential texts on popular music education, and led award-winning student ensembles. As former President of the Association for Popular Music Education, Steve helped expand its global reach and strengthen its future.
"As a music educator, I’ve seen firsthand how the cost of participating in a music program—and especially securing an instrument, whether rented or purchased, new or used—can create real barriers for students and their families. That’s why I’m deeply committed to making music accessible to all, beginning with one of the most essential steps: ensuring every student has a quality instrument that inspires joy and builds confidence. "
Steve Blatt
FOUNDER
With 45 years of experience in marketing and communications, Steve founded Bringing Music to Life after creating and leading the first four instrument drives at Colorado Public Radio. Steve played violin as part of the family trio, and now picks up his guitar when he can.
"As the son of a pianist and conductor, music was always a part of my life. I want to make sure every child has that same opportunity."
Anne Necker
Co-Chair Emeritus
A dedicated supporter of arts education, Anne and her late husband David have championed Bringing Music to Life since its founding.
“At a time when school arts education is underfunded, ensuring children have the opportunity to play in a school band or orchestra is more important than ever. Music-making provides many life-long skills
and lasting music appreciation.”
Christine Andresen
Christine has been with Bringing Music to Life since its inception at Colorado Public Radio.
"It’s the notes that donors tuck inside the cases of their cherished instruments—short stories of joy and encouragement—that have drawn me to this work since the beginning. I find meaning in conveying their gifts to another generation."
Meet Our Leadership
Michael Frank
Board Chair
A retired pediatrician and passionate musician, Michael holds a BA in music composition and previously played in the band FreeStyle. He still performs at charity house parties and composes classical instrumental and vocal pieces.
"Music is a gateway to so many opportunities and experiences both individually and in a group setting. I’m honored to help provide those opportunities to youth today.”
Bob Bassett
Treasurer
A retired lawyer, Bob earned a BFA in music from UC Boulder and an MFA in Music from California Institute of the Arts.
“Music has meant so much to me. I want to ensure our youth experience that same sense of joy and accomplishment.”
Sue Coughlin
Sue worked as a development professional with Colorado Public Radio for 29 years before retiring.
“Giving young people the opportunity to expand their minds and spirits through a lovingly refurbished instrument is very motivational.”
Mary and Woody Emlen
Mary and Woody’s bond over playing violin in fifth grade built the foundation for their 55+ year marriage. Mary is a retired children’s speech pathologist and Woody retired from UC Health, where he worked as an internist.
