Meet Anne Gallagher: Music School of Delaware board member has high hopes for program

Wilmington's Anne Gallagher isn't a musician, but she's a supporter of the arts in Delaware. Gallagher took the time to discuss her responsibilities as a board member and more.

Q) What encouraged you to join the Music School of Delaware?

A) When I was asked to join the board six years ago, I was pleased to have this opportunity. I have always been a big supporter of the arts in Delaware and have loved music all my life. Although I am not a musician myself, I respect those who are and feel it is critical to any community to have a top quality music education organization. Both of my daughters, at one

time or another took lessons at the Music School and I am pleased to be able to give back a little to the school.

Q) As a board member, describe some of your responsibilities?

A) The responsibilities of the Music School’s board members are to oversee the financial stability of the school; to provide organizational governance, create fundraising opportunities for the school, set up strategic and marketing plans and set in motion a succession plan to guarantee the longevity of the school. I like the fact that the board always seeks input from the administrators and faculty of the school on the curriculum choices and other suggestions they bring to the table.

Q) What do you believe is the school’s greatest strength?

A) I believe the school’s greatest strength is its ability to maintain loyal faculty and students even in tough financial times due to its untiring ambition to keep music excellence at the heart of the operation. The school has been able to recreate itself to fit the times. Over its 85 years of providing music excellence in Delaware to people of all ages, walks of life, levels of performance and those in need of financial assistance, it has been able to re-brand itself and grow without losing any of its heart.

Q) In which ways would you like to see the school improve?

A) I hope the school continues to step out of its comfort zone a little more in order to open new avenues of funding which also will help to increase its database. I think the school is doing this and witnessing some positive results. The school is finding out that by stepping outside the box a bit, it does not conflict with the school’s mission.

Q) In the coming months, what events and programs can we expect from the school?

A)On Sept. 12, we have Race to the Music, the inaugural 5K run/walk which will benefit the programs of the Music School. We encourage people to register for the race or donate by going to www.musicschoolofdelaware.org. On October 6th, the school is planning its 6th Annual Golf Outing at Deerfield Tennis and Golf Club and, of course, there are a variety of concerts planned at the school and around the stat