Executive Director: Bo Bestvina

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Prior to starting Gifts of Music NW, Bo ran a private music teaching business with a social impact through his work with at-risk youth. Prior to that, Bo was a public school teacher for eight years. 

 

It was a 7th social studies student of Bo’s who inspired him to pursue a career in music. In the middle of a quiet work time, he raised his hand and in front of the class said, “Mr. Bestvina, I’ve heard your music online, you’re pretty good. Maybe you could teach music?” After work Bo thought about what his student said. Over the next year, Bo saved up some money and took the leap of faith. 

 

Outside of work, Bo loves exploring the beautiful pacific NW, learning history, and spending time with his family and friends.

 

Learn more about Bo's professional background here. 

 

Board Members

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Q and A with

Dorie Blue: Board President

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What brought you to music teaching and what you love about it?

The request of a friend to teach her daughter and the encouragement of my teacher which led me to join BMTA. There I found the support and additional encouragement and skills to be successful. It suited me because I’m a creative person and I like the joy of being creative in a creative field! I especially like the one-on-one teaching and building of relationships with students over the course of their study.

What is your past experience on boards?

 

• PTA in elementary, middle and high school in numerous capacities

• BMTA board in various capacities

• WSMTA board in several capacities

• Westedge Federal Credit Union board member

• Northside Church as Christian Education Chair

• Stuart Slusher Scholarship Fund

Why you are excited to serve Gifts of Music NW?

It’s a wonderful non-profit with amazing goals and passion for reaching and helping others through the healing power of music. I feel that it’s something I can help make a difference in, in my community.

What are your Hobbies outside music?
Gardening, swimming, knitting, anything fun!

 

Any other notable awards?
I’ve received the highest honor for volunteerism in PTA with the Golden Acorn Award. I was nominated and inducted into the Washington State Music Teacher’s Hall of Fame by my fellow colleagues for exemplary service.

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Board Treasurer:

Nathan Campbell

Nathan began his teaching career as a swim instructor and found it to be such a rewarding experience that it just made sense to pursue teaching music, which was his degree in college. He worked at a couple music schools while living in San Francisco before moving back to Bellingham and starting his own private studio.

 

Currently, in addition to teaching, Nathan serves as the Secretary for the Bellingham Music Teachers Association as well as the Coordinator for the WSMTA Composition Competition. Serving on the Board for Gifts of Music NW aligns with Nathan’s belief that music education should be accessible to everyone, and that your situation in life should not determine your ability to experience the benefits of learning, performing, and creating music.

 

When Nathan isn’t at the piano, he can be found meandering around mountain trails, jumping into remote lakes, gardening, running, reading and wishing that there were a few more hours in each day to partake in all the joys of being alive.

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