MEET ANDREA CASSUTT, SFYSA'S NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Message from our Executive Director

Dear friends and families of SFYSA,
My name is Andrea Cassutt, and I am honored to introduce myself to you as SFYSA’s new Executive Director. I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with the board of directors and staff to fulfill SFYSA’s mission to inspire, empower, and engage the multicultural youth of Northern New Mexico through excellent music education. The organization’s 20 plus years of service to area youth and families, our possibilities for growth, and the talented, enthusiastic kids in our programs all inspire me as I step into this new role.

Many thanks to Marisela Angulo for her incredible welcome, and to all of the staff during this time of transition. SFYSA found important stability and growth under Mari’s leadership, and I am grateful she will continue to work with us as a client in her marketing-consulting business. My initial focus will be on building our team and organizational identity, increasing our visibility as an important community asset, and expanding our funding base and resources. A sincere thank you for the many ways you support SFYSA, whether as a donor, alumnus/alumna, volunteer, board member, parent or current student. Parents, a special thank you for the dedication and energy you give in support of your children and their musical education. Everyone, please share widely with your friends and family about the many opportunities and wonderful experiences available with SFYSA.

As the mother of a teenage daughter studying the performing arts, and years of arts management experience with Performance Santa Fe, I understand the importance and impact of music education. Whether or not one goes on to study and pursue a career in music, the journey of learning to play an instrument, practicing and preparing music as part of an ensemble, and performing in front of an audience all provide important life skills, opportunities for community and engagement, and a sense of place. It is part of the vision of SFYSA to give each of our students the gift of a lifelong appreciation for music, and the experience of music as an important and joyful part of life.  

31% of public school students in Santa Fe are in families that live below the poverty line, and 81% of students are in the free or reduced lunch program. In order to support the youth in our community and reach those with diverse heritage and wide ranging socioeconomic situations, SFYSA provides $20,000-$25,000 annually in financial need scholarships. Music is a vital part of educating and encouraging our young people. We need your help to make this possible. To donate in support of this outreach, please click here: to make a donation. 

I am looking forward to registration, auditions, parent meetings, and getting to know each of you as we move into the start of fall rehearsals. Please let me know if you have concerns, questions or ideas for SFYSA programs based on your experience with us. You can email me any time at Andrea@sfysa.org. 

Looking forward!

Sincerely,
Andrea Cassutt