Our Board
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Roots & Wings Community Music School is guided by a dedicated Board of Directors who share our passion for music, education, and community.
Our board works tirelessly to ensure we fulfill our mission of providing the highest quality music education while making it accessible to families throughout Albuquerque and beyond. Their leadership, expertise, and commitment help us grow a school where every child can develop strong roots and soar with wings—both in music and in life.
Barbara Barber
Barbara Barber is a world renowned violinist, violist, and educator. Known for her "Music for Young Violinists" series, she has performed and taught internationally. In 2014 she joined Robertson & Sons Violin Shop, Inc. here in Albuquerque.
Norlynn Blocker-Price
A "recovering attorney", Norlynn currently serves as Executive Director of the Albuquerque Youth Symphony. Since leading AYSP in 2017, she has secured financial partnerships, strengthened alumni relationships, and launched beginner and subsidized lesson programs, driving growth and opportunity for young musicians.
Leisa Wallace
Leisa Wallace is an author, entrepreneur, and advisor with the Women’s Business Center of Utah. After her 2019 MS diagnosis, she founded “Chronically Thriving,” inspiring others to turn hardship into purpose. She is an award-winning advocate and author.
Heidi Deifel
An immigration attorney by day and a professional violinist by night, Heidi Diefel specializes in immigration and criminal law, advocating for immigrants and crime victims in Albuquerque. Fluent in Spanish, she also performs as a first violinist with the New Mexico Philharmonic.
Brennan Wright
Brennan Wright is the Orchestra Director at Rio Rancho Middle School. A UNM graduate and Las Cruces High alumnus, he fosters musical excellence and inspires young musicians through his leadership and passion for music.
Alissa Rieb
Alissa Rieb is a dynamic violin and viola instructor based in Albuquerque and is co-director of Ready. Set. Violin. Named Nevada’s Emerging String Teacher of the Year in 2003, she currently performs with the Albuquerque Philharmonic Orchestra, runs ABQ Strings and co-directs Ready, Set, Violin!
Crystal Boyack
Crystal Boyack is a trailblazer in early childhood violin pedagogy, and world renowned teacher, clinician, and lecturer. She is the author of "Wee Violin: World Music Preparatory to Twinkle" a groundbreaking introduction to Suzuki Violin Education.
