If you follow me on Facebook or Instagram, you already know its been a very busy year. 2015 was not only about recruiting, training and business development for my clients, it was also about community engagement and The Arts. In addition to Straightforward work, I also focused on building my organization, Barrels to Beethoven, combined my skills and love of both business and the arts, partnered with Zeffiro Art, and created some really cool events that celebrated  art and music and provided the opportunity for the community to engage in a more interactive way. Creative event development took the forefront for my business and making a difference, making an impact and having my guests leave feeling good about the experience, was the reward. Here’s what’s at the top of my list…

 

The Engagement Party

This panel discussion in partnership with the Open Engagement Conference, featured several local women in various fields of The Arts. The panel was asked a series of questions and their responses brought out head nods, laughter and incite into the experience of women in the arts, particularly in Pittsburgh. My goal and the inspiration behind creating this event was to provide a much needed platform for women to share their knowledge, perspective and experiences.

 

Makers and Music

  
Throughout the summer we hosted these events in correlation with UnBlurred on Penn Ave. Makers and Music provided space for local artisans to showcase their goods while local musicians performed. Makers included; Knotzland, Ruhling Woven, Zeffiro Art and Born to Be. With music provided by; Two Tall Twins, Chris Catone, Comancheria, Brett Staggs, David Pugliano aka DJ illeso, Aaron Pfeiffer, JackLucy and my band, Rhythm ‘n’ Steel. These inspiring events were so well received. Smiles on every face. Makers and Music will definitely be back in 2016 with some really cool locations and amazing artists.

 

Moving Language -Opening Reception

Take an amazing artist, an exceptional exhibition of work, and the love and support of family, friends and community and you’ll get the opening night of Moving Language. It was an absolute pleasure to work on this show and event. The exhibit ran through the summer of 2015 and the beautiful artwork created the backdrop to events like Art with the Artist, Brunch En Blanc and “The Compilation” – designer preview party and mixer. Stay tuned for more great work and exceptional events from the artist, Sarah Zeffiro.

Pop up Yoga

This event turned out to be as rewarding for me as it was for the guests. My first experience doing yoga could not have been more impactful and amazing. Led by instructor Cara Bessko and set amongst the art of Sarah Zeffiro this class left me feeling great the entire weekend. Next up with Cara? Yoga and The Pan 1/23 @ Alloy Studios.

Let’s Play Pan 21+

  
 This interactive workshop for adult students, featured Caribbean cuisine, cocktails and lots of music and laughter. Each session, we started a band! Taking non-musicians, teaching them steelpan technique and turning them into musicians. By the end of the evening we were playing songs like, Viva la Vida, Hey Jude and Watermelon Man. These events were beyond awesome. My eyes might have teared up at some point in the evening during each session. I love teaching Steelpan but I am so grateful to all who attended. Funds from these events help to support the Pittsburgh Youth Steel Orchestra.  More events to come in very cool locations!

 

Gather and Give

This event could not have come at a better time. Right before Christmas my friends, family, supporters and collaborators all gathered at The Goldmark in Lawrenceville for a happy hour event to celebrate the season and give back. Every guest brought a sweater or two, or ten to donate to our sweater drive. We enjoyed cocktails and danced the early evening away to great music provided by DJ illeso. On Christmas Eve my family and I delivered the sweaters to The Salvation Army Family Caring Center. Because I will always do for others, and the interest of some other organizations in need, this event will hopefully occur quarterly. I’m really looking forward to that. Special thanks to The Goldmark for hosting us and being such an awesome venue.

 

Favorite Events, Attended

Luckily I didn’t have to creative my own events to learn, be inspired and have a good time. There were some really cool events that I was honored to attend..

Six X Ate

Fuse: Beethoven + Coldplay

Startup Weekend Education

Style Week Pittsburgh

Speak Freely with Luis von Ahn

Maker Faire Pittsburgh (attended and participated)

Stay tuned for more arts focused, engaging, uplifting and interactive events. 2016 will yield great moments built by collaboration and focused on community. Happy New Year!