This is the fifth 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!
Mark Sternberg/Senior Event Coordinator
Hometown: Elkhart, IN
How long have you been with Music for All?
I did some seasonal work with Music for All for a couple of falls, but started working full-time at Music for All in 2013.
What is your favorite event at Music for All and why?
I really enjoy everything we do (the variety is part of what keeps things interesting and fun), but probably the fall season. We have the opportunity to be around so many great bands every week, and work with some really wonderful volunteers and Music for All Event Staff.
Do you have a favorite memory of working an event with Music for All?
The Army Field Band and Soldiers Chorus from Washington D.C. (one of the best bands in the world) has performed at the Music for All Summer Symposium twice in the past few years. I was backstage during one of their concerts, and they were performing a piece that featured several of their low brass players, playing in front of the band. The featured members exited the stage to a RIDICULOUS round of applause and cheering. Once they were backstage, they had huge smiles, were high-fiving, and absolutely pumped from the amount of energy from the students in the crowd. A number of Field Band members said they “felt like rock stars” that night. It was amazing to see the performers, audience, and the staff all having such a positive experience.
What is your musical background?
I started as a percussionist in band when I was 10 years old, and continued throughout school. I studied Music Education at Butler University, and was a band director for 10 years. I still try to play, and love that percussion can allow such a broad spectrum of performance opportunities.
One thing you couldn’t live without?
Music, Friends & Family, and Diet Coke
What are you currently reading?
I am currently reading questions from our staff profile interviews… Also, I’ve been reading The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes. The collection of short stories makes it easy to still finish something when things are busy.
Do you have a favorite quote?
“When you come to a fork in the road, take it.” Yogi Berra
What’s a show you’ve binge watched recently?
West Wing, Scandal, The Office, Lost
Favorite movie not many people have seen?
Serious movie, and a great story – The Red Violin. Completely stupid and funny movie – Army of Darkness
