This is the seventeenth installment of a new series that will highlight the Music for All staff members who work behind-the-scenes to make all of the positively life-changing experiences happen! Get to know each of our amazing staff members, as we learn more about who they are and what they do at Music for All. A new post will be featured every week!
Name/Job Title: Maddie Fitzgerald, Participant Relations Coordinator
Hometown: Lenexa, KS
How long have you been with Music for All?
On August 1, I will have been with Music for All for a full year!
What is your favorite event at Music for All and why?
The Bands of America Championships during the fall are definitely my favorite events. It’s challenging to be on the road during those nine weeks, but I’ve loved the opportunity to see some new places in the country and meet some great people.
What has been your favorite part of working at Music for All?
Music defined my educational experience from 5th grade until I graduated from college. Although it is different to not be playing my horn every day, Music for All still keeps me connected to the musical community now that I am not actively playing in school.
Do you have a favorite memory of working an event with Music for All?
One of my favorite memories is from the first BOA Regional I ever attended in McAllen, TX. It was probably 1 a.m. and we had finally finished loading our truck and moving out of the stadium. The Music for All team went to Whataburger when we were finished. (Which was great, by the way. I’m a fan now.) There is nothing specific about the memory that makes it my favorite, but everyone was exhausted, sweaty, and slap-happy while we sat in this Whataburger and laughed about the craziness of the day. It was a great bonding experience with my coworkers.
What is your musical background?
Like many kids, I started playing in band in 5th grade and started studying privately shortly thereafter. During high school, I was regularly participating in concert band, marching band, pit orchestra, solo and ensemble, honor ensembles, and the Youth Symphony of Kansas City. In college, I had a concentration in music that kept me playing daily. I also joined Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity and was inducted into Pi Kappa Lambda National Music Honor Society during my senior year.
One thing you couldn’t live without?
Diet Mountain Dew. I’m not kidding.
What kind of music do you listen to?
It definitely depends on the setting, but I listen to a lot of Top 40 radio in my car. Some of my favorite artists and bands are Bastille, Sara Bareilles, Walk the Moon, Jukebox the Ghost, and Taylor Swift.
What do you like to do in your free time?
In the past year I have taken up indoor rock climbing, which is so much fun. I also love reading and knitting.
What are you currently reading?
A Feast for Crows by George R. R. Martin (book #4 in the Game of Thrones series)
What’s a show you’ve binge watched recently?
I’m really ashamed to say this, but I’ve been binging on Dance Moms recently. I completely recognize that this is not quality television, and I could be spending my time finishing the Game of Thrones books so that I can watch that instead. But sometimes I just need my semi-reality TV. I also thoroughly enjoy Parks and Recreation, The Office, The Bachelor(ette), and So You Think You Can Dance.
