Birch Creek Mission Statement
To engage and nurture promising young and adult musicians through immersive, performance-based instruction in a professional, mentoring environment. By empowering them to achieve their full potential, we foster excellence in musical education and performance, and enhance our reputation as a leader in the field.
Welcome to Birch Creek!
Welcome to Birch Creek Music Performance Center! We are extremely proud to be able to offer you another year of exceptional education and performance here in Door County. We are very pleased that you have chosen to be part of this outstanding music experience.
Birch Creek is a world-class residential music academy that provides our talented young musicians with the opportunity to learn from outstanding teachers and performers and to experience what it is like to be a professional musician. You are a very important part of fulfilling our mission; you make live performance opportunities possible for our students and provide the much-needed financial support required to offer these gifted young musicians this musical development.
I know this performance will leave you with greater appreciation for the commitment and hard work that our students, faculty, and staff put into their growth as musicians and as quality individuals. So, sit back and enjoy a musical encounter I am sure you will not forget!
On behalf of our Board of Trustees, I would like to thank you for your attendance and support.
I hope we will see you back again!
Steven Gomoll
President, Birch Creek Board of Trustees
Steven Gomoll, President
Scott Brunswick, Vice President
Patti Vickman, Secretary
Stephen Kase, Treasurer
Steven Kane, Development Chair
John Belmont, Associates Volunteers President
Board of Trustees
Donna Altepeter
Jane Berg
Greg Britton
Carla Byrnes
Tammie Grossman
Joan Guasta
Lyn Huber
Steven Johnson
Darcy Kriha
David Long
Ray Moulis
Eric Wolf
3821 County Rd E, PO Box 230, Egg Harbor, WI 54209 • Phone: (920) 868-3763
Email: MainOffice@BirchCreek.org • Website: BirchCreek.org
The Next 50 Years Begin Today
Welcome to Birch Creek Music Performance Center!
I am so happy you are here to celebrate another summer of life-changing performances and musical fellowship with our exceptional young professionals, faculty, and guest artists.
Our Summer Academy is at the heart of our educational mission and concert programming. With 29 side-by-side concerts in the barn, four Free Family Community Concerts and over 20 Jazz Ambassador outreach events scheduled for 2026, students and supporters will enjoy access to one-of-a-kind musical experiences.
In August, our Adult Retreats showcase the capacity to learn at any stage of life. Each retreat concludes with a free concert that highlights the incredible growth of our adult participants—you won’t want to miss them!
Our Fall Series continues the momentum as we move into Juniper Hall. The series kicks off with hard-bop classics from Birch Creek piano faculty Michael Stryker and his Quintet . We are also thrilled to present three performances of Dueling Pianos – The Sequel to the Sequel! featuring Birch Creek piano faculty Jodie DeSalvo and Colin & Friends’ Colin Welford, followed by a “barnburner” evening with Kevin Van Ess and his Dixieland Jazz Band in Talk of the Town
This season is only possible through your incredible support. From Named and General Scholarships to Legacy Circle giving, Endowment support , and contributions to our Play It Forward Annual Fund, your gifts are paramount to sustaining these impactful programs. We also remain deeply grateful for the incredible efforts of our Associates Volunteers.
Last summer, I asked you to dream about Birch Creek’s next 50 years. Your feedback has initiated new plans and projects that I can’t wait to share! If you’d like a sneak peek, please find me at a concert this summer.
Thank you for joining us this season, and for all you do to support our students. From all of us at Birch Creek, we hope you enjoy the concert!
In service and fellowship,
Jenna Ferdon, Executive Director
The Steve and Jackie Kane Chair
A Musical Legacy: The 50th Season Time Capsule
A dream became reality in 1976 when Jim and Fran Dutton hosted the very first summer concert on the Birch Creek campus. For the next 50 years, an incredible family of young artists, teachers, mentors, donors, and volunteers formed around Jim’s desire to provide a practical, performancebased education to students desiring a career in music. This summer, we put the final touch on our celebration of 50 seasons of music and education in the barn – a time capsule to commemorate our beginnings and reflect on how far we’ve come. Housed beneath a custom treble clef sculpture outside the Dutton Concert Barn, this capsule preserves the spirit of Birch Creek for future generations. Concertgoers and patrons are invited to view a display of our time capsule contents in the Miller Music Center’s Melzer Gallery during the 2026 season.
Birch Creek postcard
The Time Capsule
This weathered steel treble clef sculpture serves as the permanent marker for the Birch Creek 50th Season Time Capsule. Installed in front of the Dutton Concert Barn, it commemorates five decades of music on the farm, from our founding in 1976 through our milestone 50th season in 2025.
+ YEARS OF
For over 20 years, we’ve been your source for jazz news, interviews, performance listings, and live entertainment for private and corporate events.
An original program from Birch Creek’s third concert season.
2026 Special Events
Thursday, June 25 | 7:00 PM
James Dutton Memorial Concert
Join us for this special Percussion, Steel Pan & World Music concert in honor of Birch Creek’s Founder, the late James Dutton.
Saturday, July 4 | 2:00 PM Social 3:00 PM Concert
Independence Day Concert with Free Pie and Ice Cream Social
Celebrate the 4th of July with our famous preconcert pie and ice cream social followed by a festive program featuring the cinematic heroism of John Williams, the lyrical symphonics of Florence Price, rousing marches by John Philip Sousa, and the energetic style of Morton Gould. Join us for an afternoon of patriotic pride! Children ages 11 and under are free.
Saturdays — June 27 | 11:00 AM
July 11, July 25, August 8 | 1:00 PM
Free Family Community Concerts
Open to the public at no charge for family community concerts sponsored by the Town of Egg Harbor.
Wednesdays — July 22 & August 5 2:30-4:30 PM
Free Outreach Concerts
The Jazz Ambassadors with the Lab and Studio Bands from the Big Band Jazz Sessions (Jazz I and Jazz II) will each perform free concerts for the community at the Sister Bay Pavilion. TPAC, PO Box 136 Washington Island, WI 54246 870 Main Rd, Washington Island, WI 54246 www.tpacwashingtonisland.com 1-920-847-2528
Preparing Birch Creek for the Next 50 Years
As Birch Creek looks ahead, the Board of Trustees has adopted a new five-year plan that continues our commitment to Birch Creek’s mission of performance-based music education while preparing the campus for the next 50 years.
Because of years of thoughtful care and maintenance, much of our campus infrastructure and asset investments remain in strong shape. This new plan focuses on key updates and improvements –making sure our facilities continue to support both the student experience and our concert season for years to come.
Terminal Air Conditioning units in the Faculty Dorm, along with adding weather radios and fire blankets across campus—small but meaningful upgrades that improve comfort and safety for everyone here.
Recent Improvements
• Faculty Dorm air conditioning upgrades
We’re also looking ahead to important work on the Dutton Concert Barn. Plans are in place to replace the roof and reface the west wall by the end of 2026, helping protect and preserve this historic space as it continues to serve as the heart of our performances.
• Campus-wide safety enhancements
• Ongoing maintenance and preservation efforts
Thanks to the generosity of donors at our 50th Season Gala, we were able to complete three priority projects ahead of the 2026 season. These include installing ten new Packaged
There’s more to come, and we’re excited about what’s ahead. If you’d like to learn more about these projects and plans, we’d be glad to share—feel free to reach out to our office or connect with Executive Director Jenna Ferdon at a concert this season.
Planned improvements to the Barn will support its continued use for years to come.
The Dutton Concert Barn remains the heart of Birch Creek’s performance experience.
WPR Music offers beautiful, locally-hosted classical music seven days a week with jazz, world and folk music each weekend.
91.9
WPR Music
88.1
WPR Music
Sister Bay
Green Bay
A Birch Creek Timeline
1975
Birch Creek Founders Jim and Fran Dutton purchase the A-frame on County E across from the current campus.
1977 - 1980
1977 The Granary is renovated into a student dorm, the barn for performances. First concert held in the barn.
1978 Enrollment grows to 53 students with 11 concerts over five weeks.
1979 Enrollment is 103, and faculty includes Russell Dagon, principal clarinetist with the Milwaukee Symphony, Lovel Ives, founder of the jazz program at UW-Green Bay, and UWGB marimbist Gordon Stout.
1980 First full summer season features 22 concerts and four free family matinees.
1976
The Duttons begin a music school in their A-frame home with 12 students. The A-frame is also the site of the first public concert. That winter, the 19th century farmstead that is Birch Creek’s home was purchased from the Tischler family of Baileys Harbor.
1982
G. Allan O’Connor from Northern Illinois University begins the Steel Band program at Birch Creek; enrollment is 143, concert attendance 3,950.
A Birch Creek Timeline
1984 - 1988
1984 A new dormitory capable of housing 38 students and six faculty is built.
1986 Birch Creek’s 10th anniversary is celebrated with performances by Woody Herman and the Thundering Herd, and the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra conducted by Buddy Morrow.
1988 The Birch Creek Associates volunteer group is formed.
1995 - 2000
1995 20th Anniversary celebration includes dedication of the James N. Dutton Concert Barn.
1998 A new kitchen/dining room is added to the Student Dorm. Student enrollment is 178; overall concert attendance exceeds 9,000.
1999 A music listening library opens in the farmhouse. Jazz pianist Marian McPartland continues the tradition of great guest artists at Birch Creek. The Jazz Ambassadors band is formed. Jim Dutton passes away.
2000 Birch Creek celebrates its 25th season, welcoming guest artists Peter Schickele, Gene Bertoncini, Harold Jones and Freddy Cole.
1990 - 1994
1990 The Picnic Grove is planted and the Gazebo is built by the Associates.
1991 Popcorn sales begin with all proceeds helping underwrite student scholarships.
1992 Birch Creek management passes to a reorganized Board of Trustees after the campus is purchased from the Duttons.
1994 A new administration building and a faculty dorm are built.
A Birch Creek Timeline
2001 - 2002
2001 A piano lab, popcorn stand and gift shop make their campus debuts.
2002 The Associates Bench Project begins. A stage extension is added and the Dutton Concert Barn gets a new roof.
2005 - 2008
2005
2007 Perfect Pitch Capital Campaign begins on Opening Night, with a goal to add three new buildings to the Birch Creek Campus.
2008 Rehearsal Center, Faculty Dorm, and Maintenance Building dedicated on June 30, doubling the campus footprint.
2003 - 2004
2003 The Farmhouse undergoes major refurbishment.
2004 Cliff Alexis, world-renowned steel pan builder and tuner, holds masterclasses for students and performs concerts for audiences.
2010 - 2011
2010 To close out the Capital Campaign, the Final Pitch campaign is launched.
2011 “Jazz at Birch Creek” is recorded by Wisconsin Public Television in August and airs in 2012 throughout Wisconsin and in Rochester, NY.
Birch Creek celebrates its 30th season.
A Birch Creek Timeline
2014 The Final Pitch campaign concludes. The Associates’ new concession stand in the East Granary opens in celebration of their 25th anniversary. Wisconsin Public Television records Symphony and Percussion & Steel Band sessions.
2017 - 2019
2017 West Campus receives electrical and water upgrades; the barn receives theatrical stage lighting. Adult Band Camp launches.
2018 In Phase III of the Infrastructure and Technology Plan, office systems are moved to the Cloud.
2019 First Chamber Music Retreat. Dutton Barn stage is named “Stage of Stars” and Jackie and Steve Kane name the gazebo.
2021 - 2022
2021 Erickson Listening Library dedicated; campus reopens at half capacity with outdoor concerts.
2022 Campus fully reopens. The Concerto Competition is named by Laurey and Phil Clampitt. A new fire alert system is installed in the West Dorm Building.
2015 - 2016 2020
2015 Birch Creek celebrates its 40th season anniversary. The Associates Play It Again Stand opens in the Granary. The Fall Concert Series is introduced.
2016 The Dutton Concert Barn’s South Wall is replaced, and a new infrastructure plan begins.
COVID-19 cancels in-person Academy sessions and concerts; Birch Creek Online is launched.
2023 - 2025
2023 Enrollment rises to 186, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Adult Piano Retreat debuts.
2024 Concert Barn lighting upgraded to industry standards; new TA Building flooring and outdoor dining roof installed.
2025 Birch Creek celebrates its landmark 50th Season. The milestone is commemorated with world-class guest artists and a signature Gala.
Our Academy Program Directors pictured in 2021: Jeff Campbell, Ricardo Castañeda and Dan Moore
Percussion, Steel Pan & World Music Faculty
Dan Moore Roger and Lynn Van Vreede Percussion Program Director Chair
Dr. Dan Moore, in his 28th year at Birch Creek, has served as Director of the Percussion, Steel Pan & World Music program since 2016. He is an internationally known artist/teacher of percussion, composer, and music producer. Dr. Moore is also a Yamaha international performing artist, Innovative Percussion signature mallet artist, and a performing artist for Sabian Cymbals, Gon Bops Percussion, and Grover Pro Percussion. Since 1996, he has led a vibrant student-centric percussion program at the University of Iowa where he is a senior professor.
Scott McConnell Steel Band Director
Scott McConnell marks his 12th year with Birch Creek in 2026. He is an active steelpan/percussion performer in a variety of styles throughout the Chicagoland area. McConnell has performed with the Illinois Festival Orchestra, Carpe Diem String Quartet, as well as South East, Starlift, and Harmonites Steel Orchestras to name a few. He is also an educator serving as the director of Steel Orchestras with the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestras, percussion faculty and rock ensemble instructor at Lewis University, as well as percussion and steelband instructor at Elgin Community College. Alongside McConnell’s ensemble teaching, he maintains a private lesson studio teaching students of all ages. He is also an education artist for Vic Firth, Zildjian, and Mike Balter.
Anthony Di Sanza World Percussion Ensemble Director
The summer of 2026 marks Anthony Di Sanza’s 12th year with Birch Creek. He is a Professor of Percussion and Vilas Distinguished Achievement Professor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, having performed and presented master classes across North America, Europe, and Asia. Di Sanza’s percussion compositions are published by Tapspace, Alfred, and HoneyRock, and he can be heard on over 25 international recordings. At Birch Creek, he serves as a faculty performing artist, directing ensembles and teaching a variety of world percussion styles.
Victor Provost Guest Artist
With a dazzling improvisational style, renowned steelpan virtuoso Victor Provost is recognized globally for seamlessly blending Bebop, contemporary flair, and Caribbean roots. Hailing from the US Virgin Islands, he’s a six-time “Jazz Percussionist of the Year” awardee by The Washington D.C. City Paper. Provost’s latest album, “Bright Eyes,” debuted at #5 on the iTunes Top 40 Jazz Charts. Having collaborated with jazz luminaries like Wynton Marsalis and Paquito D’Rivera, he’s a rarity in the jazz ecosystem, as noted by Downbeat Magazine.
Percussion, Steel Pan & World Music Faculty
Michal Brauhn Damm, Norman, OK
Hana Fujisaki, Chicago, IL
Wesley Morgan, Brookfield, IL
Peter Naughton, Platteville, WI
Brad Stirtz, Naperville, IL
Rodrigo Villanueva, Janesville, WI
Symphony Faculty
Ricardo Castañeda Program Director, Sarah E. Wright Chair
2026 marks Ricardo Castañeda’s 29th year at Birch Creek. He holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in music performance from Northwestern University, where he studied with Ray Still, and is a winner of the Northwestern University Concerto Competition and the Wade Fetzer Award for excellence in performance. Castañeda has appeared as a soloist throughout the U.S., Europe, Latin America, and Japan. He is Principal Oboist of The Chicago Sinfonietta and solo English horn with The Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra, and has performed with leading orchestras, opera companies, ballet organizations, and Broadway productions. He serves on the faculty at the University of Illinois at Chicago and Northeastern Illinois University and plays a key role in the development and oversight of Birch Creek’s Symphony session programming.
Taka Matsunaga Conductor
Taka Matsunaga, the 2021 Conductor of the Year (Illinois Council of Orchestras) and a two-time American Prize winner in Orchestral Conducting, is Director of Orchestras and Assistant Professor of Music at Elmhurst University. He is also Founder and Music Director of the Midwest Philharmonic Orchestra and a Symphony Conductor at Birch Creek. Matsunaga came to the U.S. in 1998 to study violin with David Taylor, Joseph Golan, and Robert Chen, earning his master’s degree from Northeastern Illinois University. A former Civic Orchestra of Chicago member, he performed at Carnegie Hall under Maestro Daniel Barenboim and played with renowned conductors including Neeme Järvi, Christoph Eschenbach, and Pierre Boulez. He has conducted at Carnegie Hall, Symphony Center, and Walt Disney Concert Hall and led workshops at ILMEA conferences. A member of CODA, NAfME, ILMEA, and ASTA, he enriches the musical journey of aspiring musicians.
Alan Snow
Concertmaster, Charlotte Lukes Chair
Since joining the Minnesota Orchestra in 2022 as Associate Concertmaster, Alan Snow has built a distinguished career as a leader, soloist, and chamber musician. A Chicago native and graduate of Indiana University, his professional journey includes serving as the second associate concertmaster with the Omaha Symphony and holding faculty and concertmaster positions with the University of Evansville and the Evansville Philharmonic. Snow’s international presence is marked by performances at venues such as London Symphony Orchestra St. Luke’s and Mexico City’s Sala Manuel M. Ponce, as well as a rich discography featuring albums like Voices of Mexico’s Past and Present and Dialogos. A proud Birch Creek alum and 2010 concerto competition winner, he continues to support the academy as a member of the artist-faculty and concertmaster of the Birch Creek Symphony.
Symphony Faculty
Principal Second Violin
Marcia Henry Liebenow, Peoria, IL
Violin
Betty Lewis, Wilmette, IL
Elizabeth York, St. Paul, MN
Viola
Matt Barwegen, Bourbonnais, IL
Cello
Mary Moster and Lou Williams Chair
Sonia Mantell, Minneapolis, MN
Cello
Emily Mantell, Wheaton, IL
String Bass
David Scholl, Madison, WI
Flute/Piccolo
Shirley Stolley Chair
Shannon Finney, Kansas City, MO
Oboe
Ricardo Castañeda, Oak Park, IL
Clarinet
Claire Werling, Chicago, IL
Bassoon
Galina Kiep, Chicago, IL
Horn
Dan O’Connell, Chicago, IL
Trumpet
Joan and Robert Schaupp Chair
Ryan Hobbs, Elgin, IL
Trombone
Stephanie Lebens, Chicago, IL
Tuba
Charles Schuchat, Chicago, IL
Percussion
Robert Everson, Oak Park, IL
Piero Guimaraes, Providence, RI
Piano
Stanley R. and Robert E. Wright Chair
Jodie DeSalvo, Naples, FL
Harp
Faye Seeman, Palatine, IL
Symphony Session conductor
in action—guiding, shaping, and inspiring every note.
Taka Matsunaga
Big Band Jazz Faculty
Jeff Campbell Academy Jazz Orchestra Director, Jazz I Program Director Bonnie Bruce and Paul Aspinwall Jazz II Program Director Chair
2026 marks Jeff Campbell’s 38th year at Birch Creek, 29th as Jazz Program Director. Dr. Campbell is Professor of Jazz Studies & Contemporary Media and department chair at Eastman School of Music. He has carved out an impressive career as a bass player fluent in both the jazz and classical idioms. As a jazz bassist, Campbell has performed with Marian McPartland, Gene Bertoncini, Rich Perry, Harold Jones, and others, and played at esteemed jazz festivals worldwide including in the former Soviet Union and the Baltic Republics. Additionally, Campbell is a member of the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra bass section. He has numerous CDs to his credit.
Rogue Theater Presents…
Jazz I Faculty
Gil Wukitsch Lab Band Director
Gil Wukitsch has been teaching at St. Charles East High School since 1997, where he directs the Wind Ensemble, Jazz Workshop, and extra-curricular pit orchestra, as well as co-directing the marching and pep bands. He also serves as the Fine Arts Department Chair, overseeing both Performing and Visual Arts. Wukitsch has a degree in music education from DePaul University, and a master’s in educational leadership from Aurora University. After attending Birch Creek as a student from 1989 to 1992, he has been a Birch Creek trumpet teaching assistant and faculty member and has directed both the Lab and Studio Bands.
Jim Stombres Studio Band Director Chair named in his honor 2026 is Jim Stombres’ 38th season with Birch Creek. He directed bands for more than 40 years in four suburban Chicago high schools, finishing his career at St. Charles North High School. Under Stombres’ direction, the Naperville North Wind Ensemble performed at the Bands of America National Concert Band Festival and received the DownBeat Student Music Award for Outstanding Wind Ensemble. Stombres holds degrees from the Moody Bible Institute, Illinois State University, and Northwestern University. He is active in the Illinois Music Educators Association and is a recipient of the John Paynter Lifetime Achievement Award. Stombres also codirects Birch Creek’s Wind Ensemble Retreat.
Jazz I Faculty
Ambassador Director
Katie Ernst, Chicago, IL
Alto Saxophone
Christopher McBride, Bronx, NY
Jarrard Harris, Chicago, IL
Tenor Saxophone
Scott Burns, Chicago, IL
Piano
Michael Stryker, Wheaton, IL
Trumpet
Joey Tartell, Bloomington, IN
Lennie Foy, Greencastle, IN
Trombone
Bill and Marti Thompson Chair
Isrea Butler, Las Vegas, NV
Trombone
Nelsen Campbell, Rochester, NY
Kirby Fellis, Palatine, IL
Bass
Jeff Campbell, Rochester, NY
Drums
Howard and Miriam Erickson
Chair honoring Bob Chmel
Maria Marmarou, Philadelphia, PA
John Sturino, New York, NY
Guitar
See Program Insert
Vocalist
Katie Ernst, Chicago, IL
Jazz II Faculty
Steve Sveum Lab Band Director
Steve Sveum served as the Director of Bands at Sun Prairie High School, where jazz ensembles under his direction were selected to perform at numerous state and national conventions, including the Midwest Clinic in Chicago. A 2014 recipient of the DownBeat Jazz Education Achievement Award, Sveum’s expertise is sought out nationally; he has served as a faculty member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Band Director Academy and has been a regional “Essentially Ellington” festival consultant for the past 20 years. Additionally, he has directed All-State Jazz Ensembles in both Iowa and Indiana and has been a faculty member of the Jazz Sessions at Birch Creek for 23 years. Sveum also co-directs the Birch Creek Wind Ensemble Retreat.
Nic Meyer Studio Band Director
Nic Meyer serves as Director of Jazz Ensembles at New Trier High School. He oversees a comprehensive jazz program consisting of four large jazz ensembles and many jazz combos. Under his direction, New Trier’s Jazz Ensemble 1 has performed at the Chicago Jazz Festival, Jazz Education Network Conference, and Illinois Music Educators’ Conference. His groups have opened for Delfeayo Marsalis and the Uptown Jazz Orchestra and Arturo O’Farrill and the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra. While on tour, the band has participated in workshops with The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, members of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and members of the Juilliard Jazz faculty. 2026 is Meyer’s 11th summer at Birch Creek.
Jazz II Faculty
Ambassador Director
Marty Robinson, Appleton, WI
Alto Saxophone
David Bixler, New York, NY
Tenor Saxophone
Todd Williams, McCordsville, IN
Trumpet
Tanya Darby, Boston, MA
Clay Jenkins, Rochester, NY
Trombone
Steve Horne, Glenview, IL
Clarence Hines, Jacksonville, FL
Piano
Jane and Gerry Berg Chair
Reggie Thomas, Belleville, IL
Piano
Adaron Jackson, St. Louis, MO
Bass
Jeff Campbell, Rochester, NY
Drums
Dennis Mackrel, Woodstock, NY
Guitar
Forever in Time Chair
Larry Brown, Chicago, IL
Vocalist
Mardra Thomas, Belleville, IL
2025 Student Awards
The Birch Creek Student Awards are presented at the end of each two-week session and are based on musicianship and leadership. First-place winners are eligible for a partial tuition scholarship for the following season. In the event that a first-place winner cannot return, the runner-up or honorable mention is eligible for the scholarship. The two first-place winners of the Concerto Competition are eligible to perform one movement of a concerto on opening night of the following season. In the event that a first-place winner cannot perform, the runner-up or honorable mention is eligible for the honor. An asterisk (*) indicates the award recipients who you will see on stage at Birch Creek in 2026.
Percussion, Steel Pan & World Music
Dutton Memorial Scholarship
Winner: Knox Dowell*
Runner-up: David Greer
Outstanding Performer
Winner: Gabrielle Venegas
Runner-up: Miranda McArtor
Most Improved Student
Winner: Gabrielle Friday
Runner-up: Ashlynn Hardy
Symphony
Outstanding String Student
Winner: Nathan Freeland*
Winner: William Maeda
Outstanding Woodwind Student
Winner: Jackson Medley*
Honorable Mention: Sebastian Jarrin-Paniagua*
Outstanding Brass Student
Winner: Sara Held*
Honorable Mention: David Wurl*
Outstanding Percussion / Harp / Piano Student
Winner: Emika Matsumura*
Honorable Mention: Celine Eldira*
2025 Clampitt Concerto Competition
Winner: Nathan Freeland*
Winner: David Wurl*
Honorable Mention: Heidi Huntington
Honorable Mention: Robert Rosenthal
Honorable Mention: Conan Obst*
Jazz I
Outstanding Rhythm Section Player
Winner: Thomas Teixeira
Runner-up: Spencer Mamola*
Most Improved Rhythm Section Player
Winner: Elliot Tiefenbrun
Runner-up: Johnathon Holtz*
Outstanding Wind Instrument Player
Winner: Richard Dombrowski
Runner-up: Ana Fernandez
Most Improved Wind Instrument Player
Winner: Ashley Sanchez
Runner-up: Elias Kolthammer*
Jazz II
Outstanding Rhythm Section Player
Winner: Jacob Boba
Winner: Noah Schencker
Most Improved Rhythm Section Player
Winner: Gaia Saraf*
Runner-up: Katie Vetter*
Outstanding Wind Instrument Player
Winner: Mike Angelaccio
Runner-up: Keira Jenkins
Most Improved Wind Instrument Player
Winner: Jareth Martinez-Garcia*
Runner-up: Ahi Naveen
Winner of the Dutton Memorial Scholarship, Knox Dowell, with Jenna Ferdon (Executive Director) and Dan Moore (Percussion, Steel Pan & World Music Program Director).
GROUP MEMBERSHIP
HIGH SCHOOLS. MIDDLE SCHOOLS. NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS.
For busy educators, a PAS Group Membership makes it simple to access a wealth of expertise, advice, and opportunities for you and your students — all in one place.
STUDENT BENEFITS
• Experience an unforgettable masterclass with a renowned percussionist
• PASIC discount for four days of musical education - meet your heroes
• Access to the unmatched education experience of PAS student competitions
• Access to scholarships and grants
• Watch hours of performance and instructional videos on the PAS video library
INSTRUCTOR BENEFITS
• PASIC discount for hours of professional development
• Build relationships with other instructors
• Access to practice aids, repertoire, technique tips, and the extensive PAS video library
• Book an unforgettable masterclass
• Access to grants and awards
Milestones
Birch Creek recognizes faculty members who have dedicated 20 and 30 seasons or more to serving the academy. “20 Year Club” inductees include the following:
The 20 Year Club
Tom Streeter Jazz
Liam Teague Percussion
Jeff Stitely Percussion
Mike Lee Jazz
Steve Horne Jazz
Rick Haydon Jazz
Jim Warrick Jazz
Vicki Peterson Jenks Percussion
Joey Tartell Jazz
Alan Steiner Symphony
Marty Robinson Jazz
Robert Chappell Percussion
David Bixler Jazz
Marcia Henry Liebenow Symphony Michael Stryker Jazz
Robert Everson Symphony Matthew Mantell Symphony
Dan Moore Percussion
Brian Groner Symphony Ricardo Castañeda Symphony Tom Garling Jazz
Steve Sveum Jazz
Shannon Finney Symphony
Clay Jenkins Jazz
“30 Year Club” inductees include the following:
The 30 Year Club
Al
Percussion
Brad Stirtz Percussion
2018
2021
Clay Jenkins , Big Band Jazz II faculty, receives recognition for 20 years of teaching and performing at Birch Creek. Congratulating him are Executive Director Jenna Ferdon and Big Band Jazz Program Director Jeff Campbell, during the August 9, 2025 concert.
O’Connor
Audrey Morrison Jazz
Jim Stombres Jazz
Bob Chmel Jazz
Jeff Campbell Jazz
2026
Gil Wukitsch Jazz
Jodie DeSalvo Symphony
Faye Seeman Symphony
Mardra Thomas Jazz
Reggie Thomas Jazz
Matthew Lee Symphony
Emily Mantell Symphony
Betty Lewis Symphony
2026 Inductees
New inductees into the Birch Creek “30 Year Club” are:
Jodie DeSalvo - The 30 Year Club
Celebrating 30 years with Birch Creek in 2026, concert pianist Jodie DeSalvo has been a vital presence at the academy since 1996. As the Chair of the Piano Faculty for the Symphony session, she has mentored generations of young artists with world-class expertise. Beyond the summer academy, Jodie’s influence extends throughout the year as a featured performer in the Fall Concert Series and a key faculty member for both the Adult Piano Retreat and the Chamber Music Retreat.
Jodie’s international career is distinguished by elite milestones, including a critically acclaimed Carnegie Hall debut and solo appearances with the Chicago, San Francisco, and Geneva orchestras. A graduate of the Hartt and Manhattan Schools of Music, she studied under masters John Browning and Gary Graffman. She maintains a deep professional partnership with the Naples Philharmonic, having performed with the ensemble over 100 times, and continues to host her popular “Piano Talks” series.
With 13 recorded CDs and a National Endowment for the Arts fellowship, Jodie remains a versatile and celebrated figure in the classical world. Her three-decade legacy at Birch Creek reflects a profound commitment to musical excellence and the continued growth of the Door County arts community.
Emily Mantell - The 30 Year Club
While 2025 officially marked her 30th season on faculty, Birch Creek is thrilled to continue the celebration this year as we honor Emily Lewis Mantell for her extraordinary “thirty-plus” years of artistry and mentorship. Emily’s history with Birch Creek is a true legacy; she first arrived on campus in 1985 as a Performer’s Assistant, and since joining the faculty in 1996, she has become an indispensable heart of the Symphony session.
Emily’s professional career is centered in Chicago, where she serves as Principal Cellist of the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra and is a long-standing member of the Chicago Sinfonietta. A graduate of the Chicago Musical College at Roosevelt University, she studied under the esteemed Karl Fruh. Her extensive orchestral experience includes principal roles with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago and the Northwest Indiana Symphony, as well as performances with the Bolshoi Ballet and various Chicago-area opera and theater companies.
Beyond the summer Symphony session, Emily’s commitment to the Birch Creek mission remains yearround. She is a core faculty coach for our Chamber Music Retreat for adult learners and serves on the music faculties of Saint Xavier University and Trinity Christian College. Having mentored hundreds of students on the concert barn stage—including her daughter, Sonia, now a professional cellist herself— Emily embodies the lifelong musical family that defines Birch Creek. We are proud to officially salute her three decades (and counting) of excellence.
2026 Inductees
Mardra Thomas - The 30 Year Club
In 2026, Birch Creek celebrates the remarkable thirty-year legacy of jazz vocalist Mardra Thomas. Though she first graced our stage in 1995 and has taken brief interludes for her prolific national career, Mardra has remained a soul-stirring constant in the Dutton Concert Barn. Known as a “Birch Creek sweetheart” alongside her husband, pianist Reggie Thomas, Mardra’s signature blend of swing and storytelling has become a defining element of the Jazz session faculty.
Mardra’s professional milestones are as diverse as they are prestigious. Her career was famously sparked after performing for Dizzy Gillespie’s 70th Birthday Concert, leading to a lifetime of performances at major festivals like the North Sea Jazz Festival and Jazz at Lincoln Center. On the theatrical stage, she earned a Best Leading Actress nomination from Chicago’s Black Theatre Alliance for her hauntingly authentic portrayal of Billie Holiday in Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar & Grill.
At Birch Creek, Mardra’s influence transcends performance. She is a dedicated educator who has led vocal clinics for the academy and pioneered community-focused programs that reflect her belief in music’s power to heal and educate. A frequent collaborator with the Chicago Jazz Orchestra and recorded on acclaimed albums like Matters of the Heart, Mardra continues to be a vital artistic force.
Birch Creek Administration
Jenna Ferdon Executive Director, the Steve and Jackie Kane Chair
Jenna Ferdon joined Birch Creek as Executive Director in 2025 with over fifteen years of experience as a musician, instructor, and arts administrator. Jenna’s work in the arts began here at Birch Creek’s Symphony Session, inspiring her to pursue what continues to be a fulfilling and exciting career in music. She hold Bachelors and Masters degrees in music from Bradley University (IL) and the University of Iowa (IA), respectively.
Paul Greenlaw Facilities Manager
Paul joined Birch Creek in late 2022 as facilities manager. With degrees in engineering and medicine, he brings a desire to ensure Birch Creek’s facilities work appropriately to allow the music and learning to continue. Paul played percussion in high school and as an undergraduate student.
Michelle Naese Office and Registration Manager
Michelle started with Birch Creek in 2015 as Administrative and Office Support Assistant and she is currently the Academy’s Registrar and Office Manager. She holds an Administrative Professional associate degree from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College–Green Bay. Michelle has 10 years of experience as a law office clerk. A musician herself, she played the trumpet throughout middle school and high school.
Laura Smith Marketing Manager
Laura Smith joined the Birch Creek Staff with six years of marketing experience in the jewelry insurance industry. Her past work also includes a career as a TV news reporter and anchor serving Northeast Wisconsin. She is experienced in building relationships, communicating with people, video production and photography. She holds degrees in Broadcast Journalism and Communication Arts from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Ellen Fredrich Bookkeeping and Operations Assistant
Ellen joined Birch Creek in 2023 as the Bookkeeping and Operations Assistant. Ellen holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree with a minor in English from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and an Accounting Assistant diploma from Northwoods Technical College. Her background includes project management, administrative, marketing, and customer service roles. Ellen played clarinet in high school.
Robin Walker Administrative Assistant
Robin started with Birch Creek in 2023 as a part-time administrative assistant. She also serves as Volunteer Liaison. With experience as legal and executive secretaries, and a career in a large music publishing company, she brings refined organizational skills and excellent customer service to her role. Robin is a graduate of Milwaukee Area Technical College.
John Havemeyer Lead Maintenance Technician
John joined the Birch Creek staff with experience in maintenance, electrical work, and information technology. His career in maintenance spans from local businesses to large industrial plants. His electrical expertise covers both residential and industrial settings, including industrial automation and control systems. Over time, his skills expanded to programming, computer hardware, and network administration. He holds an associate’s degree in Electronic Engineering Technology from the College of Lake County and graduated from DeVry University in Chicago.
2026 Support Staff
Office Support
Abby Cherek, Public Relations Intern, Stevens Point, WI
Khadija Nagi, Box Office Intern, DeKalb, IL
Production Crew
Kate Luker, Production Manager, Springfield, IL
Xander Helvie, House Manager, Libertyville, IL
Residential Living
Drew Hansen, Head Counselor, Iowa City, IA
Shaun Everson, Counselor, Naperville, IL
Kenneth Ryan, Counselor, DeKalb, IL
Trista Schepp, Counselor, De Pere, WI
Maya Statz, Counselor, Middleton, WI
Cory Stordahl, Counselor, Eau Claire, WI
Jenna Zimmerman, Counselor, Cortland, IL
BY RICHARD MALTBY, JR.
The Music of Johnny Cash
delightful musical tribute to The Man in Black
The Birch Creek Associates Volunteers
Dedicated Associates Volunteers Richard and Karen Ratchman show their support for Birch Creek by staffing the Play It Again Stand. Their contributions, along with countless others, help create unforgettable experiences for our patrons.
Our dedicated volunteers - The Associates Volunteers - are the friendly faces you see greeting you around campus. For more than 30 years, the Associates Volunteers have supported Birch Creek’s educational mission by helping with campus beautification, ushering at concerts, staffing the concession stand, assisting with registration, tending to our gardens, doing office work and preparing the campus for students, faculty and patrons. In a typical season, members provide more than 3,000 hours of service. The Associates Volunteers have raised more than $400,000 for scholarships, equipment purchases and capital projects. This group of volunteers is an integral part of Birch Creek’s success.
Photo by Heidi Hodges Photography
If you would like to learn more about the Associates Volunteers or become a member, please see one of the volunteers, a staff member or contact us at Associates@BirchCreek.org or 920-868-3763.
2026 Birch Creek Associates Volunteers
(as of April 30, 2026)
Sandy and Steve Bader
Alice and John Belmont
Jane Berg
Patricia Brewer
Carla Byrnes
Dave Christensen
Elise Christensen
Laurey Clampitt
Jim Clark and Cindy Kase
Trissa Crowley
Charlene Y Cutler
Julie De Leon
Jackie and Steve Draws
Fran Dutton
Barbara and James Erlenborn
Chris Fenner
Jennifer Garber
Peter Grimyser
Tammie Grossman and David Wolowitz
Joan Guasta
Terry Heidenreiter and Jeanne Rabel
Barbara and Doug Henderson
Bill and Jane Hensge
Thomas Hopfensperger
Karl and Lyn Huber
Dawn and Steve Johnson
Dick Johnson
Katherine and Roger Jones
Lynn Kaczmarek
Judith and Thomas Kapellen
Darcy Kriha
Marilyn Kuester
Brenda Lange
Dale Logan
David and Patricia Long
Charlotte Lukes
Sharon Michalsen
Bill and Raetta Mirgain
Gwen and James Mitsche
Mary Moster
Curt and Patricia Neudecker
Frank Pammer
Denny and Sandy Pearson
Joan Pleuss
Peggy Prindle
Karen and Richard Ratchman
Mary Reinsmoen
David Resch
Taylor Richey
Robert Ross
Penny Scherf
Terry Schneider
Jacquelyne Sepsey
Bob Shogren
Associate Volunteer Jim Wirth maintains the expansive grounds during our Spring Volunteer Work Day. His dedication ensures our outdoor spaces remain welcoming for all visitors.
Norene Swaney
Martha Thompson
Betty VanBellinger
Patricia and Steven Vickman
Sue Vineyard
Dave and Donna Wilkinson
Marcia Willhite
Bonnie and Jim Wirth
Mark and Sarah Woerfel
Eric Wolf
Cheryl and Hugh Zettel
2026 Summer Concerts
All concerts at 7:00 PM unless noted below.
Thursday | June 18
Good Vibrations: Percussion Plays The 1960s
Thursday | June 25
Americana! Percussion Goes West
Friday | June 19
Americana! Percussion Goes West
Friday | June 26
3 PM & 7 PM
Island to Island: The Steel Pan Artistry of Victor Provost
Friday | July 3
Color and Fantasy
Thursday | July 2
New Voices: Clampitt Concerto Competition Winners
Smetana, Gregson, Dvorak, and Price
Thursday | July 9
Movement, Magic, & Mastery
Featuring Jodie DeSalvo, Piano Faculty
Humperdinck, Falla, and Tchaikovsky
Featuring Shannon Finney, Flute Faculty
Rimsky-Korsakov, Poulenc, and Tchaikovsky
Friday | July 10
Legends, Lullabies, & Mystery
Glinka, Ravel, and Elgar
Wednesday | July 15
Swing into Summer
Wednesday | July 22
The Joy of Swing Volume I
Wednesday July 29
The Joy of Swing Volume II
Wednesday August 5
Jazz and Big Band in the Barn
Thursday | July 16
Friday | July 17
Swing, Blues and Big Band Jazz
Thursday | July 23
Friday | July 24 | 3 PM
The Sounds and Styles of Big Band Jazz
Thursday | July 30
Big Band Jazz Summer Favorites
Thursday August 6
Celebrating Big Band Jazz
Saturday | June 20 | 3 PM
Good Vibrations: Percussion Plays The 1960s
Saturday | June 27 | 4 PM
Americana Vibrations: Percussion Closing Concert With Special Guest Victor Provost
Saturday | July 4 | 3 PM
America at 250: A Symphonic Celebration Patriotic Favorites
Friday | July 31
Big Band Jazz Summer Favorites
Saturday | July 11
Symphony Farewell
Smetana, Ravel, Tchaikovsky, and Elgar
Saturday | July 18 | 3 PM
Swing into Summer
Saturday | July 25
The Joy of Swing Volume 1
Friday | August 7
3 PM
Celebrating Big Band Jazz
Saturday | August 1
3 PM
The Joy of Swing Volume II
Saturday | August 8
Jazz and Big Band in the Barn
2026 Fall Concert Series
Featuring Birch Creek Faculty and Guest Artists
Juniper Hall | All concerts at 7:00 PM unless noted below.
September 12
Michael Stryker Quintet
Birch Creek’s Michael Stryker and his quintet launch the 2026 Fall Series with an exploration of the iconic Blue Note catalog. Experience the timeless repertoire that defined an era and remains the gold standard for jazz excellence.
September 12 | 7:00 PM
September 18 & 19
Dueling Pianos - The Sequel to the Sequel
featuring Jodie DeSalvo and Colin Welford
Beloved musical heavyweights Jodie DeSalvo and Colin Welford return with an all-new program of piano duets, bringing with them the wit, virtuosity, and musical surprise you’ve come to love in a good-ole-fashioned Piano Duel.
September 18 | 3:00 PM September 19 | 1:00 PM & 4:30 PM
September 26
Talk of the Town
featuring Kevin Van Ess and his Dixieland Jazz Band
Back by popular demand, this nationally recognized Bourbon Street Dixieland/Swing Jazz group returns to fill the air with infectious energy and upbeat rhythms.
September 26 | 7:00 PM
October 10
Kirby Fellis Quintet
Experience the spirit of authentic hard bop through powerful standards and soulful original compositions.
Led by Birch Creek’s Kirby Fellis, Indigo Soul blends deep cultural legacy with contemporary energy for an immersive, driving jazz experience.
Associates Fall Fundraiser
Social | 5:30 PM
Heavy Hors d’Oeuvres & Cash Bar | 6:00 PM
Concert | 7:00 PM
December 5
Christmas at Birch Creek
featuring Birch Creek Symphony Brass and Guest Performers
Family Matinee | 2:30 PM Evening Concert | 7:00 PM
Adult Music Programs at Birch Creek
Music. Learning. Escape.
Experience the joy of learning and enhancing your music performance skills in the supportive, encouraging and peaceful environment of Birch Creek Music Performance Center. With a full daily schedule of rehearsals, sectionals, ensembles and masterclasses, you will refine your music performance skills and still have time to enjoy the allure of quintessential Door County.
Wind Ensemble Retreat
August 12-15
Wind Ensemble Retreat
Co-Directors:
Jim Stombres
Steve Sveum
Brayer Teague
Chamber Music Retreat
August 17-20
Chamber Music Retreat Director: Ricardo Castañeda
August 21-24
Piano Retreat Director: Susan Tang
Special Thanks to our 2026 Concert Sponsors
Anthony and Priscilla Beadell
Charles Beasley
Bob and Cindy Beckman
Birch Creek Board of Trustees
Jane and Gerry Berg
Jim and Pat Blair
Sam and Vicky Carmen
Laurey and Phil Clampitt
Dr. Dennis and Bonnie Connolly
Fran Dutton
Jim and Barbara Flint
Gardi Family
Steve and Mary Gomoll
Joan Guasta
Dick Johnson
Steve and Dawn Johnson
Steve Kane Family
Darcy Kriha
Stephen and Kathy Kuhn
Anthony Licata
Charlotte Lukes
MMG Foundation
Fred and Christi Moritz
Mary Moster
Ray and Claire Moulis
Jim and Peggy Ryan
From Suzi, in loving and cherished memories of her mother, Florence Spanbauer
Ben and Jane Stephen
Marti Thompson
Roger and Lynn Van Vreede
Steve and Patti Vickman
For more information on concert sponsorship opportunities, contact us at (920) 868-3763 or email MainOffice@BirchCreek.org. Birch Creek is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation; your donation will be receipted for tax purposes.
Planned Giving at Birch Creek
A planned gift is any major gift made during one’s lifetime or in their will that is part of a donor’s overall financial and/or estate planning. Planned giving allows donors to keep their philanthropic values alive and active through Birch Creek’s mission. Planned Giving categories include The Endowment, The Legacy Circle and Named Gifts.
Planned Giving - The Birch Creek Endowment
The Birch Creek Board of Trustees began the process of building an endowment of permanently held funds in 2000. They designated four funds for donors’ gifts within the Birch Creek Endowment, each focusing on different aspects of Birch Creek’s mission. A donor may place contributions in one of the four funds, thereby restricting how earnings from their gifts may be used. The Endowment principal (the gift itself) is everlasting. Listed here are the Funds and the sub-funds within them where a donor has met the minimum gift requirement needed to establish a sub-fund; or, a donor has pledged a significant contribution to name a building, place within a building, faculty chair, or one of Birch Creek’s flagship programs. In italics are the names of those whose gifts were received between May 1, 2025, and April 30, 2026.
4
FUNDS
BUILDING FOR TOMORROW FUND
Capital campus improvements
Gifts to Fund the Principal
Anonymous
Joe Guthridge
Nancy E. Hughes
Joan Liss
Lisa Pildes and Michael Sehr
In Memory of Jeanne Maxon
Joe Goldberger
Sub-funds
Joan B. Guasta Capital Sub-fund
1
BUILDING FOR TOMORROW FUND
LIFETIME FOR EDUCATION FUND
NOW & FOREVER FUND
SCHOLARSHIPS FOREVER FUND
Anonymous Stanley and Jane Whiteman
LIFETIME FOR EDUCATION FUND
Curriculum components including faculty and guest artist fees
Gifts to Fund the Principal
Roy and Betsy Gill
In Memory of Robert J. Bauer
Dave and Mona Christensen
In Memory of Helen Cordon
Dave and Mona Christensen
2
Robert and Donna Koehler Memorial
In Memory of Bob Koehler
Thomas Bonnie
In Memory of Donna Koehler
Thomas Bonnie
Brad and Mary Koehler
David Koehler and Barbara Kraemer
Joseph and Marde McConnell
Gary and Virginia McCurdy
Mike and Babs Mortl
Joseph and Marsha Parker
Donna Satterfield
Kaye M. Wagner Memorial
In Memory of Kaye M. Wagner
John and Sherry Adams
In Memory of Melvin Klatt
Dave and Mona Christensen
In Memory of Shirley Klatt
Dave and Mona Christensen
In Honor of Mona Christensen’s Retirement
Donna Altepeter
Tom and Penny Beerntsen
John and Alice Belmont
Jane and Gerry Berg
Jim and Pat Blair
Greg and Becky Britton
Scott and Lynn Brunswick
Carla Byrnes and Sara Oswald
Virginia Eades
Jim and Barbara Flint
Steve and Mary Gomoll
Joan Guasta
Steven and Dawn Johnson
Steven and Jackie Kane
Stephen and Wendy Kase
Steve and Kathy Kuhn
David and Pat Long
Raymond and Claire Moulis
Kate Rericha
Steve and Patti Vickman
David Wolowitz and Tammie Grossman
Sub-Funds
Greg and Becky Britton
Greg and Becky Britton
Lucile Grams Memorial
Permanently Named Faculty Chairs
Jane and Gerry Berg Jazz II Piano
Faculty Chair
Bonnie Bruce and Paul Aspinwall Jazz II Program Director Chair Sub-fund
Paul Aspinwall
Howard and Miriam Erickson Jazz I Drum
Faculty Chair honoring Bob Chmel
In Memory of Robert (Bob) Chmel
Ben and Lee Kordus
Nancy Grimm Symphony Clarinet
Faculty Chair
Gordon and Grace Gunnlaugsson Jazz I
Piano Faculty Chair
Anthony and Judith Licata Jazz I Lab Band Director Chair
In Memory of Judith Licata
Jane and Gerry Berg
Scott and Lynn Brunswick
Dave and Mona Christensen
Peter and Myra Cristall
Gregory and Mary Holub
Anthony Licata
Charlotte Lukes
Charlotte Lukes Concertmaster Chair
Mary Moster and Lou Williams
Symphony Cello Faculty Chair
Joan and Robert Schaupp Symphony
Trumpet Faculty Chair
Shirley Stolley Symphony Flute Faculty Chair
Jazz I Studio Band Director Chair honoring James Stombres
Bill and Marti Thompson Jazz I Trombone
Faculty Chair honoring Audrey Morrison
In Memory of Bill Thompson
Martin Krebs
Forever in Time Jazz II Guitar Faculty Chair
In Memory of Rick Haydon
Dave and Mona Christensen
Steve and Lisa Sveum
Roger and Lynn Van Vreede Percussion
Program Director Chair honoring Dan Moore Sub-fund
Roger and Lynn Van Vreede Charitable Fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region
Permanently Named Programs
Laurey and Phil Clampitt Concerto
Competition
Laurey and Phil Clampitt
Permanently Named Places on Campus
Jackie and Steve Kane Gazebo
Faculty Dorm Room #108 In honor of Don Makuen and Charlie Dickson, a gift of Tom and Marlys Regan
In Memory of Charles Dickson Jr.
Peter and Myra Cristall
Wright Housing, In Memory of Sarah E. Wright
NOW and FOREVER FUND
Supplements the cost of day-to-day operations
Sub-funds
Alan and Virginia Eades
In Memory of Alan Eades
Virginia Eades
Mary Harrington
Joan Guasta
Wes and Cookie Kramlich Memorial
Roy and Charlotte Lukes
William and Ruth Melzer Memorial
Bonnie and Peter Platten
Robert and Catherine Tilden
SCHOLARSHIPS FOREVER FUND
Scholarships for students of high musical skills, merit, and financial need
Gifts to Fund the Principal
Stacia Beyl
3
4
Dr. and Mrs. Dennis and Bonnie Connolly
Risë Kaiser
Sue and Mike Miller
Dorothy Tevoert
In Honor of Jodie DeSalvo
Ken and Janet Berggren
Sub-funds
Otto and Jean Andreae Memorial
Paul Aspinwall Scholarship Sub-fund
Paul Aspinwall
Joel and Mary Ann Blahnik Scholarship
In Memory of Joel Blahnik
Jon and Christianna Blahnik
George (Lee) Bourassa Memorial
William and Nancy Carpenter
Connolly Family
Dr. and Mrs. Dennis and Bonnie Connolly
Donald and Lois Deane Memorial
Lucile Grams Memorial
Francis M. Hartman Memorial
In Memory of Francis Hartman
Elizabeth Cwik
Jane and Michael Ferris
Shelley and Olwen Hansen-Blake
Francine Hartman and Chris DeMarco
Gloria Hartman
Kari Kenefick
Mary Lalor
Robert Mitchell and Marianne Morton
William Poplarchik
Steve and Lisa Sveum
Amy Wallace
Richard and Jan Johnson
In Memory of Jan Johnson
Dick Johnson
Maihaugen Foundation
MMG Foundation
Allan Peterson Memorial
Joseph and Marian Phelps Memorial
David and Peggy Babb
In Memory of Kathleen Schimoller
David and Peggy Babb
Founders Funds
Ernest Seeman Memorial
Linda Clarke
Larry Seeman
William and Ann Taylor Memorial
Elliott and Shyla Wollman Memorial
Permanently Named Scholarships
Anonymously Named Scholarship
Bert, Marianne, and Ben Scholarship
Bonita R. Bruce Memorial Scholarship
James Dutton Merit Scholarship
Anonymous
Frances Dutton
Dave, Bev, and Wes Urschel
In Memory of James Dutton
Janet E. Bulin
In Memory of Sonja Stork
Don Stork
In Honor of Fran Dutton
Janet E. Bulin
Brian T. Hynes and Barry J. Hynes Memorial Scholarship
Phyllis C. and James Ingwersen Scholarship
In Memory of Jim Ingwersen
Anonymous
George Kress Foundation Scholarship
Ralph Pratt Memorial Scholarship
Sylvia K. Pratt
A Scholarship in Cherished Memories of Florence Spanbauer
Jonathon Tobias Music Initiative
Sue Vineyard
Bill Vineyard Memorial Scholarship
Sue Vineyard
Frank and Carol Weber Scholarship
Stanley R. and Robert E. Wright Scholarship
In the early years of establishing the Birch Creek Endowment, many memorial gifts were made to honor a donor or designee. Although these funds are no longer active, Birch Creek Board of Trustees recognizes the gifts that were so vital in beginning the Endowment. The principal remains in each fund as restricted by the donor and continues to generate earnings.
Lifetime for Education Fund, honoring Dick and Kit Conner
Erik Eriksson
Robert Hohman
G. Allan (Al) O’Connor
Now & Forever Fund, honoring Dick and Kit Conner
Mark and Ann Jinkins
John and M. Lynn Lees
Donald Makuen
Scholarships Forever Fund, honoring
Robert Borgstede
Jay Dorschel
Marilyn Hanford Goldman and Harris Goldman
William Grimes
John Leick
Nancy Makuen
John (Jack) Mitchell
Irving Moberg
John Pfeifer
Eugene Stevens
Reverend William White
The Legacy Circle
The Legacy Circle was created to help guarantee Birch Creek’s financial stability far into the future. A planned gift is a resource upon which Birch Creek can rely for years to come. Large and small, these gifts are vital to the success of Birch Creek’s future. Many donors have found that time spent considering what to give, as well as when and how to structure their contributions, can help them make more meaningful gifts while meeting personal planning goals as well.
With admiration, we present the names of Legacy Circle members.
Legacy Circle Members
Buffy Andreae
Anonymous (3)
Anthony and Priscilla Beadell
Charles Beasley and Fred Mann*
Jane and Gerry Berg
Bert*, Marianne*, and Ben*
Carla Byrnes and Sara Oswald
Sam and Vicky Carmen
Dave and Mona Christensen
Peter and Myra Cristall
Frances Dutton
Virginia T. Eades
Miriam Erickson*
Lucile M. Grams Charitable Lead Annuity Trust*
Joan Guasta
Phyllis C.* and James* Ingwersen
Vicki Peterson Jenks
Steve and Jackie Kane
Stephen and Wendy Kase
Irene Daniell Kress Revocable Trust*
Henry and Dorothy Kuettner Endowment Fund*
Marguerite L. Lembke and Lillian A. Lembke Revocable Trust*
Anthony and Judith* Licata
Charlotte Lukes
Fredric and Christi Moritz
Mary Moster and Louis Williams*
Thomas Regan
Estate of Ernell F. Rothe*
Carl and Barbara Shakal
Cynthia Stiehl
Diane (Di) Taillon
Bill* and Marti Thompson
Steven and Patricia Vickman
Adolf and Ursula Walser Revocable Trust*
Anne* and Jim White
Sarah E. Wright Charitable Trust* *deceased
Annual Giving at Birch Creek
Play It Forward Annual Fund
The Play It Forward Annual Fund raises financial support for operational expenses, allowing Birch Creek to keep tuition affordable for most families. See page 55 for details on how to support this initiative.
Annual Scholarships
Scholarship donations provide continuing tuition support, enabling Birch Creek to recruit promising young musicians, encourage repeat Academy attendance, and address financial barriers to music education in our communities. See page 54 for a full list of donors.
Concert Sponsorship
Concert sponsorships support one-of-a-kind opportunities for our students by supporting special guest artists and performers, programming initiatives, and the invaluable experience of performing for live audiences. See page 41 for more information.
Capital Gifts
Birch Creek’s 50-year legacy continues! Capital Gifts ensure that we have the facilities and infrastructure necessary to continue supporting students in performance-based music education well into the future. See page 8 for more information.
Acknowledgment of Our Donors
Birch Creek is privileged to receive many gifts throughout the year; listed here are gifts received between May 1, 2025 and April 30, 2026. Birch Creek is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation and donations are receipted for tax purposes.
Donation Levels
Leadership Circle
$10,000 & above
Encore
$250 to $999
Leadership Circle
Anonymous
Paul Aspinwall
Laurey and Phil Clampitt
Frances Dutton
Susie Gebhardt
Tom and Carole Guyette
Henry and Dorothy Kuettner
Endowment Fund
Anthony Licata
Charles McKee
MMG Foundation
Nicholas Family Foundation
Sargent Family Foundation
Town of Egg Harbor
Director’s Circle
$2,500 to $9,999
Mentor’s Circle
$100 to $249
Roger and Lynn Van Vreede
Charitable Fund within the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region
Director’s Circle
Anonymous (4)
Jane and Gerry Berg
Glenn N. Bruck
David Burke and Wendy Lukes
Dr. and Mrs. Dennis and Bonnie Connolly
Dwight and Linda Davis Foundation
Rob Davis
Faculty Circle
$1,000 to $2,499
Bravo
$1 to $99
Robert and Lynn Doneff
Irene M. Fox
The Gardi Family
Bob and Nancy Gellman
Gould Family Fund of the Door County Community Foundation, Inc.
Timothy and Barbara Graul
Dr. Roger and Denette Hilbert
Marian Hislop Charitable
Lead Trust
Dick Johnson
Steven and Dawn Johnson
Barbara Keller
Jim Kinney
Walter and Mary Langbein
Richard and Marilyn Leccese
Jason and Suzanne Levin
Karen Mehigan and Jim Friel
David and Marion Meissner
Charitable Fund of the Door County Community Foundation
Robert and Carol Sorrentino
Suzi Spanbauer Schmidt Jones and Dick Jones
Connie Sweeney
Sue Vineyard
Wisconsin Arts Board
Faculty Circle
David and Susan Anderson
Mary Pikul Anderson
Katy Andino
Nancy Andriacchi
Anonymous (4)
Charles and Stephanie Baer
Janet Thomas Bailey
Drs. James and Nancy Barton
Anthony and Priscilla Beadell
Charles Beasley
John and Alice Belmont
Pamela Blanchard
John and Linda Blossom
Boerke Family Foundation
Greg and Becky Britton
Joel Brown and Julie Strauss
Greater Milwaukee Foundation
Anthony and Andrea Bryant Family Fund
Susan Caldwell
Dave and Vonnie Callsen
Birch Creek is funded in part by a grant from the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Molly Chann
Don and Deb Chapman
Linda Clarke
Chris Cramer
Peter and Myra Cristall
Marcia Dick
Door County Coffee & Tea Co.
Door County Medical Center
Adrian D. Duszynski
Virginia Eades
Sandy and Paul Fernstrum
Jane Feurer
Roy and Betsy Gill
Steven and Mary Gomoll
Peter Gotsch and Dr. Jana French
Joseph and Gwenn Graboyes
Charitable Fund of the Door County Community Foundation, Inc.
Joan Guasta
Gordon Gunnlaugsson
Joe Guthridge
Barbara and James Hansen
Steve and Betsy Hansen
Francine Hartman and Chris DeMarco
Gloria Hartman
Patti Jo Hedeen
Stephanie Herout
Hislop Family Foundation
Gregory and Mary Holub
Nancy E. Hughes
Dave and Mel Johnson
Gloria Jones
Cindy Kase and Jim Clark
Dennis and Barbara Kessler
Klug Family Fund of the Door County Community Foundation
Edward and Eileen Krall
Darcy Kriha
Steve and Kathy Kuhn
Bob Lindahl and Wilma Van Arragon
David and Carrie Link
Charitable Fund of the Door County Community Foundation
Charlotte Lukes
Greg Macola and Mary McEnerney
Mike and Liz Mahoney
Rick Malkemus and Lisa Tetzloff
Chip and Mary Jo McCarthy
Anne and Patrick McEnroe
Scott and Christine Miller
William and Diane Miller
Daniel and Liesa Moore
Fred and Christi Moritz
Mary Moster
Allen Nottke and Marcia Kirtland-Nottke
MJ O’Brien Family Foundation
Bruce and Carol Olson
On Deck Clothing Company
Dennis and Sandy Pearson
Richard and Karen Ratchman
Dr. Chris and Diane Rodahl
Jim and Peggy Ryan
Ken and Nancy Serwinski
Ben and Jane Stephen
Marti Thompson
Karen and Roger Utnehmer
Steve and Patti Vickman
Kim Viney
John and Roberta Walgren
Doug and Suzanne White
Jim White
Wisconsin Public Service Foundation
Carl and Sandy Zapffe
Encore
Theo and Jan Abrahamson
Donna Altepeter
Buffy Andreae
Anonymous (9)
Nancy and Dick Arnoldy
Larry and Joan Balistreri
Rich and Eileen Beaver
Robert Beckman
Tom and Penny Beerntsen
Jon and Christianna Blahnik
Jim and Pat Blair
David and Barbara Boes
Ken and Marie Bohnen
Encore (continued)
Thomas Bonnie
Jeffrey Bonvallet and Laura Fisher-Bonvallet
Nancy T. and David A.
Borghesi Fund
Mike and Marge Bork
Bill and Nan Bow
Edward Brady
Scott and Lynn Brunswick
Janet E. Bulin
Jim and Barbara Bunning
Carla Byrnes and Sara Oswald
Kathy and John Campbell
Sam and Vicky Carmen
Renny and Barbara Challoner, a fund of the Greater Green Bay Community Foundation
Donald and Beverly Chappie
Peter and Beverly Conroy
Greg and Lorna Cote
Andy and Jan Coulson
White Gull Inn
Verne and Charlene Cutler
Donna Danielson
John and Pat DeLeonardis
Mrs. Gary Doudna
Michael Elkow
Mark A. and Jean M. Elste Family Fund
Dan and Jean Engelke
Robin R. and Robin J. Engl
Tom and Andrea Esau
Gretchen and Dan Farwell
Matt and Ellen Feldman
Bruce and Chris Fenner
Lynn and Linda Ferrell
Jim and Barbara Flint
Jack and Cindy Follick
James Forbeck
George and Bernie Freeman
Fred and Barb Frey
Friends of the Door County Library Board
Tim and Marsella Fults
David George and Laurie Zelon
Dottie Gerrits
Julia Griffith
Kelly Guth
Lauren Krupp
Mark and Jean Halm
Jacqueline Haney
Carl and Donna Hanson
George and Judy Harmon
Peggy Haydon
Paul Heim and Julie Watkins
Doug and Barbara Henderson
Barbara and Gary Henkelmann
Mark and Michaela Holey
Karl and Lyn Huber
Thomas Huber
Mary Jelinek
Dennis and Donna Joannides
Ron and Carol Jochimsen
Albert Johnson
Debbie and Gary Jones
Steven and Jackie Kane
Stephen and Wendy Kase
Jack and Myrna Kaufman
David Keen and Judy Perkins
Kellems Family Fund of the Door County Community Foundation
Ben and Lee Kordus
David Kowalski
Martin Krebs
Beatrice Lapp
Gerald Lecy
John and Jill Levi
Jill Lhost
David and Pat Long
Ron and Pam Maloney
Kevin and Wanda McDonald
Robert Mead
Frank and Sherry Moon
Bill and Nancy Moore
Raymond and Claire Moulis
John and Nancy Munch
Charitable Fund of the Door County Community Foundation
Tom and Jan Myers
Eric and Michelle Naese
David and Gail Nelson
David and Carol Nestingen
Nicolet National Bank
Pecha Family Foundation
Ellsworth and Carla Peterson
Charitable Foundation
Lisa Pildes and Michael Sehr
Marina Polianska
Larry and Devon Polly
William Poplarchik
Sylvia K. Pratt
Margaret Prescott
Peggy Prindle
Jeanne E. Reichert
Paul and Barb Ristau
Rob and Katie Robbins
Clyde and Kathy Robinson
Todd and Sheryll Rockway
Ron Rozmarynoski
Rae Sanders
Randy Sannes
Marcia K. Sarvela
Martha Sauter
Kay Schmidt
Terry J. Schneider
Gary and Bev Schulze
Charitable Fund of the Door County Community Foundation
Larry Seeman
Carl and Barbara Shakal
Jerry and Nancy Sjostrom
Brian and Amy Stephens
Don Stork
Thomas Sutter
Steve and Lisa Sveum
Deanna and John Swanson
Gabriel Tawil and Lana Putter
Michael and Janice Thomas
Thrivent
Bill Tiedeman LCSW
John and Joan Tierney
Laurie Tremain
Tom Turriff
Rob Van Gemert
Roger and Beth VanGroll
Bob and Tina Wagner
Andrea Wagoner and Roger Ruggeri
David and Nancy Wahlert
Christ and Robin Walker
Don and Linda Weaver
Tom and Lee Weikert
Brad and Jo Ann Weir
Welsing’s Foodland, Inc.
Gene and Carmen Witt
Sarah and Mark Woerfel
Eric and Barbara Wolf
David Wolowitz and Tammie Grossman
William Wuesthoff
Mentor’s Circle
Ann Abbott Charitable Trust Fund of the Door County Community Foundation
Glenna Adams
John and Sherry Adams
Gail and Nick Anderson
Rick and Jan Anderson
Anonymous (9)
Dave and Peggy Babb
Margaret Belliel
Brian and Bonnie Bender
Greg and Peg Berezewski
Ken and Janet Berggren
Rev. Anthony Birdsall
A.O. and Linda Bixler
Jim and Iveta Boyanchek
The Brookby Foundation
Anne Burns
Thomas Burzinski
Roger and Doris Butz
Dave and Kathy Cecil
Marc Celani
Peggy A. Clapp
Steven and Marjorie Cooper
Karen Cowan
Mitch and Sandie Custer
Sandy Dagon
Tom and Judy DeMint
The DeSalvo Family
Harry and Nancy Devereux
Bob and Liz Dickson
Door County Master Gardeners Association Inc.
Douglas and Iris Dowden
George Draeb
Gracia Drew
Patricia Dzurick; Ann and Jim White
Anne and Richard Egan
Charitable Fund of the Door County Community Foundation, Inc.
Arlene Engler
Buzz and Sue Enroth
Hank and Mary Fasciotti
Larry and Linda Fass
Jane and Michael Ferris
FRB STL Operations Team
Jim and Iris Friedlieb
Jerry and Lois Garrity
David and Audrey Gasch
Peg Glatz
Joe Goldberger
The Gover Family
David and Julie Greatting,
Joel and Savannah
Greatting, and Reed Greatting
Steve and Joanne Hahn
Harald Halvorsen
The Hancock’s
Mary Harrington
Marian Hart
Kathleen Herman
Dale and Linda Hernandez
Joseph Hetherington and Molly Mason
James and Ina Heup
Bernard C. Hlavac
John Hnilicka
Jim Holland and Lora Koch
Fergus and Bonnie Hughes
Jean Johnson
Jon and Sally Jonas
Lynn Kaczmarek and Mack Bonk
Lois Kania
Cathy and Jack Keller
Edward Kelly
Marsha Kerley
Julie Ketter
George and Doris Kimball
Joel and Sherry Billett Kitchens
David Koehler and Barbara Kraemer
Christina Koehn
Gene and Pauline Kussart
Paul and Dianne Larson
Betty Lewis and Paul Zafer
Fr. Thomas Lijewski
Kenneth Lindberg
Walter and Karen Lischick
Paul Lowry and Barbara Widder
Robert and Donna Lucht
Sharon and Joe Malenda
Tim and Lorie Markus
Jack and Sandy Mason
Irene Mayer
Marilyn McDonald
Debra Merkle-Schubert
Jim and Peg Meyer
Tom and Sharon Michalsen
William and Raetta Mirgain
Bob and Margaret Moggio
Michael and Ann Morgan
Philanthropy Fund of the Door County Community Foundation
Marilyn Morrissey
Mike and Babs Mortl
Bob and Louise Motel
Wendy Muchman
Janet M. Nelson
Frank and Kathy Pammer
Ted Pappas and Fe Quejada
PayPal Giving Fund
Anita Petersen
Joan Pleuss
Carolyn Post
Thomas Prebble and Claudia Trimarco
Lynn and John Pullan
Kate Rericha
Lee Resnick
Susan Rorison
Dorothy Russell
Kirk and Donna Scattergood
James Schultz
Richard Schultz
Laura and Eric Schulz
Carol Scott
Dayton and Ann Sederquist
Clinton Booth Seely
Carol Shipley
Sharon Shoener
Mentor’s Circle (continued)
Bob Shogren
Sister Bay Bowl, Inc
Thomas Siwe and Joan Fortschneider
Dr. Barbara K. Sloan
Don and Ruth Stewart
Harriet Stoll
Stoneman-Schopf Agency
Thomas Strong
Susan Sturm
Kate Sullivan and Frank Langley
Tom and Bozena Swiderski
James P. Szantor
John Templer
Dorothy Tevoert
Debra and Bruce Thayer
Dennis and Jan Thornton
Paul and Nina Trigg
Dave, Bev, and Wes Urschel
Myron and Carol Van de Ven
Kevin Van Ess
Linda Vanden Heuvel
Brian and Joan Wake
Linda Walker
Amy Wallace
Gary and Linda Wallace
Deborah Webber and David Alley
Jim and Susan Westhoff
Stanley and Jane Whiteman
Jay and Sally Whitfield
William Wildman
Henk and Buttons Wolst
Glenn and Susan Worf
Mari-Jo Young
Bravo
Tina Abert
Thomas L. Aerts
Larry Alfred
Jill and Bruce Anderson
Anonymous (5)
Judy Antos
John Baker
Bea`s Ho-Made Products
Jeff Benson
Stacia Beyl
George and Twila Braden
Greer Braun
Genie Brown
Maria Caballero
Adam Cain
Thomas and Karen Camilli
Sean and Kim Campbell
Patricia Caravella
William and Nancy Carpenter
Carl and Pat Chan
Robert Cleasby
Jerrold Cobetto
Marissa Colgate
Mary Collins
Lynn Conway
Robert and Mary Cook
Joe Crider
Sandie Custer
Elizabeth Cwik
Holly Delahaut Butenhoff
Door County Ice Cream Factory
The Duncan Family
Robert Dunworth
Yvonne Dwonch
Michael Dybas
Ivan Facsko
Eugene Fenner
Scott Field
Gerri W. Friedberg
Kim Fuller
Susann Gilbert
Kelly and John Godawski
Emrold Gray
Sheldon Gulinson and Carol Sobel
Shelley and Olwen Hansen-Blake
Jesse Hardy
Scott Heggeland
Michael Herrity
Robert and Karen Hertz
Henry Herzog
Dawn Holsen
Jim and Pat Hughes
Judith Hundley
Sheelah Ilo
Wanda John
Risë Kaiser
Tom and Regina Kazda
Koerner Kehias Family
Kari Kenefick
Andrea Kinsey-Jauquet
Melissa Koehler
Mary Jo and Jon Kolb
Les and Gail Kottke
Jeffrey Kroma and Taylor Kroma-Wiley
Marvin Krull
Melinda Kwaterski
Mike Lalonde
Mary Lalor
Diane Lang
Ruth Langehough
Mert Larsen
Lautenbach’s Orchard Country
Winery & Market
Laura Lijewski
Joan Liss
Louise Lueck
Mary Luzinski
Camille Lydon
Daniel and Jean Macenski
Yuka Maeda
Main Street Market
John Marbarger
Wayne and Judith Marik
Linda Martorana
Joseph and Marde McConnell
Gary and Virginia McCurdy
Mary McEnerney
Maureen Sandstrom McGrath
Bethany McLean
Richard and Jean Mehring
Jim and Sally Mergener
Marian Miller
Sue and Mike Miller
Robert Mitchell and Marianne Morton
Jennifer Moeller
Tony Trout
Frank Moon
JoAnne Morris
Sarah Muench
Valerie Nelson
Matt Neu
James OBrien
Joseph and Marsha Parker
Nick and Kathy Parker
Jolanta Pentala
Piggly Wiggly
Nancy Pillat
David Pionke
Shane Poda
Thomas Reed
Megan Repar
David Riley
Ross Apartments
Stephen A. Saindon
Donna Satterfield
Scandia Village
Scaturo`s Baking Co. & Café
Brad Schalk
David and Marilyn Scherer
Greg and Renee Schmill
Tributes
Memorials
In memory of Robert J. Bauer
Dave and Mona Christensen
In memory of Joel Blahnik
Jon and Christianna Blahnik
In memory of Robert (Bob) Chmel
Ben and Lee Kordus
In memory of Sharon Cobb
Doug and Barbara Henderson
In memory of Helen Cordon
Dave and Mona Christensen
In memory of Charles Dickson Jr.
Peter and Myra Cristall
In memory of James Dutton
Janet E. Bulin
Marcia K. Sarvela
In memory of Alan Eades
Virginia Eades
Mary Harrington
In memory of Miriam Erickson
Anonymous
In memory of Charles Esau
Tom and Andrea Esau
In memory of June Esau
Tom and Andrea Esau
Charles Schneider
Lawrence Schulman
Charlie Schumacher
Jane Schwoerer
Jacki Scudder
Seaquist Orchards Farm Market
Alberto and Lisa Segre
Alfred Skerpan
Bob and Chris Snyder
Richard and Annette Steinke
Sweetie Pies
Tadych’s Marketplace
James and Susan Thorsen
Gina Turner
Jacky Van Doren
Mary Wachenheim
Joseph Wallner
Ron and Jan Wanek
Paul Warnke
Christine Wehrs
James Weinberger
Gloria Wendt
Scott Weyda
Katherine White
Sally Whitfield
Phillis Wilson
Wood Orchard Market
Daryl Wunrow
Meg Ziegelmann
Jack and Barbara Zilavy
Ron and Jamie Zingler
Dianne Zywicke
In memory of Duane Feurer
Jane Feurer
In memory of Francis Hartman
Elizabeth Cwik
Jane and Michael Ferris
Shelley and Olwen Hansen-Blake
Francine Hartman and Chris DeMarco
Gloria Hartman
Kari Kenefick
Mary Lalor
Robert Mitchell and Marianne Morton
William Poplarchik
Steve and Lisa Sveum
Amy Wallace
In memory of Rick Haydon
Nancy and Dick Arnoldy
Jane and Gerry Berg
A.O. and Linda Bixler
Anne Burns
Sean and Kim Campbell
Dave and Mona Christensen
Jerrold Cobetto
Robin R. and Robin J. Engl
Gerri W. Friedberg
David and Julie Greatting, Joel and
Savannah Greatting, and Reed Greatting
Tributes (continued)
In memory of Rick Haydon (continued)
Joan Guasta
Kelly Guth
Lauren Krupp
Peggy Haydon
Robert and Karen Hertz
Charlotte Lukes
Bob and Margaret Moggio
Marilyn Morrissey
Nick and Kathy Parker
Kate Rericha
FRB STL Operations Team
Dayton and Ann Sederquist
Steve and Lisa Sveum
Don and Linda Weaver
In memory of Dorothea Hilliker
Marcia K. Sarvela
In memory of Myron Hilliker
Marcia K. Sarvela
In memory of Gary Holt
Marcia K. Sarvela
In memory of James Ingwersen
Anonymous
In memory of James John
Wanda John
In memory of Jan Johnson
Dick Johnson
In memory of Melvin Klatt
Margaret Belliel
Bill and Nan Bow
Dave and Mona Christensen
Friends of the Door County Library Board
Wendy Muchman
In memory of Shirley Klatt
Dave and Mona Christensen
Friends of the Door County Library Board
Scandia Village
Kate Sullivan and Frank Langley
In memory of Bob Koehler
Thomas Bonnie
In memory of Donna Koehler
Thomas Bonnie
David Koehler and Barbara Kraemer
Daniel and Jean Macenski
Joseph and Marde McConnell
Gary and Virginia McCurdy
Mike and Babs Mortl
Joseph and Marsha Parker
Ross Apartments
Donna Satterfield
In memory of John Koehn
Christina Koehn
In memory of John Komoroske
Kathleen Herman
In memory of Marilynne Kowalski
David Kowalski
In memory of Judith Licata
Jane and Gerry Berg
Scott and Lynn Brunswick
Dave and Mona Christensen
Peter and Myra Cristall
Gregory and Mary Holub
Charlotte Lukes
In memory of Pat Malkemus
Anonymous
Susan Caldwell
Peter and Myra Cristall
Bob and Liz Dickson
Joan Guasta
Barbara and James Hansen
Marian Hart
Mary Jo and Jon Kolb
Rick Malkemus and Lisa Tetzloff
Pecha Family Foundation
Thomas Strong
In memory of Jeanne Maxon
Tom and Judy DeMint
Susan Gebhardt
Joe Goldberger
William Wuesthoff
Ron and Jamie Zingler
In memory of Jane Mezera
Tom and Andrea Esau
In memory of Barbara Morgan
Maureen Sandstrom McGrath
In memory of Dale Norris
Kim Viney
In memory of Jone Riester
Patricia Dzurick; Ann and Jim White
In memory of Jim Sabel
Donna Altepeter
In memory of Melvin Sarvela
Marcia K. Sarvela
In memory of Barbara A. Scavone
Anne and Patrick McEnroe
In memory of Emmanuel J. Scavone
Anne and Patrick McEnroe
In memory of Kathleen Schimoller
Dave and Peggy Babb
In memory of Sonja Stork
Marcia K. Sarvela
Don Stork
In memory of Fred Sturm
Susan Sturm
In memory of Bill Thompson
Martin Krebs
In memory of Dale Tremain
Laurie Tremain
In memory of Kaye M. Wagner
John and Sherry Adams
Anonymous
Stanley and Jane Whiteman
In memory of Fran Wasielewski
Greer Braun
Honors
In honor of Linda Baumheckel
Janet Thomas Bailey
In honor of Mona Christensen’s Retirement
Donna Altepeter
Tom and Penny Beerntsen
John and Alice Belmont
Jane and Gerry Berg
Jim and Pat Blair
Greg and Becky Britton
Scott and Lynn Brunswick
Carla Byrnes and Sara Oswald
Virginia Eades
Jim and Barbara Flint
Steven and Mary Gomoll
Joan Guasta
Steven and Dawn Johnson
Steven and Jackie Kane
Stephen and Wendy Kase
Steve and Kathy Kuhn
David and Pat Long
Raymond and Claire Moulis
Kate Rericha
Steve and Patti Vickman
David Wolowitz and Tammie Grossman
In honor of Jodie DeSalvo
Ken and Janet Berggren
In honor of Fran Dutton
Janet E. Bulin
In honor of Kathy Kuhn
Renny and Barbara Challoner
In honor of Steve Kuhn
Renny and Barbara Challoner
In honor of Ann Lee
John Hnilicka
In honor of Mark Lee
John Hnilicka
In honor of Irene Mayer
Mary Jelinek
In honor of Cynthia Stiehl
Deborah Webber and David Alley
In Kind
Bea`s Ho-Made Products
Door County Ice Cream Factory
Door County Master Gardeners Association Inc.
Karl and Lyn Huber
Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market
Main Street Market
Eric and Michelle Naese
Piggly Wiggly
Scaturo`s Baking Co. & Café
Seaquist Orchards Farm Market
Bob Shogren
Sweetie Pies
Tadych’s Marketplace
Michael and Janice Thomas
Christ and Robin Walker
Wood Orchard Market
Annual Scholarship Donors
Theo and Jan Abrahamson
Glenna Adams
Nancy Andriacchi
Anonymous (7)
Nancy and Dick Arnoldy
Janet Thomas Bailey
Drs. James and Nancy Barton
Tom and Penny Beerntsen
Jane and Gerry Berg
A.O. and Linda Bixler
Mike and Marge Bork
Jim and Iveta Boyanchek
Glenn N. Bruck
Anne Burns
Susan Caldwell
Kathy and John Campbell
Sean and Kim Campbell
William and Nancy Carpenter
Carl and Pat Chan
Molly Chann
Peggy A. Clapp
Jerrold Cobetto
Dr. and Mrs. Dennis and Bonnie Connolly
Robert and Mary Cook
Peter and Myra Cristall
John and Pat DeLeonardis
Bob and Liz Dickson
Robert and Lynn Doneff
The Duncan Family
Adrian D. Duszynski
Mark A. and Jean M. Elste Family Fund
Robin R. and Robin J. Engl
Sandy and Paul Fernstrum
Jane Feurer
FRB STL Operations Team
Gerri W. Friedberg
The Gardi Family
Roy and Betsy Gill
Peg Glatz
Timothy and Barbara Graul
David and Julie Greatting, Joel and Savannah
Greatting, and Reed Greatting
Joan Guasta
Kelly Guth
Tom and Carole Guyette
Mark and Jean Halm
Harald Halvorsen
Barbara and James Hansen
Steve and Betsy Hansen
George and Judy Harmon
Marian Hart
Peggy Haydon
Kathleen Herman
Robert and Karen Hertz
Joseph Hetherington and Molly Mason
James and Ina Heup
Dr. Roger and Denette Hilbert
Dennis and Donna Joannides
Koerner Kehias Family
Mary Jo and Jon Kolb
Jeffrey Kroma and Taylor Kroma-Wiley
Lauren Krupp
Walter and Mary Langbein
Anthony Licata
Charlotte Lukes
Rick Malkemus and Lisa Tetzloff
Ron and Pam Maloney
Tim and Lorie Markus
Marilyn McDonald
Karen Mehigan and Jim Friel
Debra Merkle-Schubert
Marian Miller
MMG Foundation
Bob and Margaret Moggio
Bill and Nancy Moore
Marilyn Morrissey
Nick and Kathy Parker
Pecha Family Foundation
Anita Petersen
John and Carolyn Peterson
Charitable Foundation, Inc
Joan Pleuss
Marina Polianska
Carolyn Post
Thomas Prebble and Claudia Trimarco
Lynn and John Pullan
Raibrook Foundation
Kate Rericha
Martha Sauter
Kay Schmidt
Scholarships Forever Fund in the Birch Creek Endowment
Anonymously Named Scholarships (2)
Bert, Marianne, and Ben Scholarship
Bonita R. Bruce Memorial Scholarship
James Dutton Merit Scholarship
Brian T. Hynes and Barry J. Hynes Scholarship
Phyllis C. and James Ingwersen Scholarships (2)
George Kress Foundation Scholarship
Ralph Pratt Memorial Scholarship
A Scholarship in Cherished Memories of Florence Spanbauer
Jonathan Tobias Music Initiative
Bill Vineyard Memorial Scholarship
Frank and Carol Weber Scholarship
Stanley R. and Robert E. Wright Scholarship (3)
Jane Schwoerer
Dayton and Ann Sederquist
Dr. Barbara K. Sloan
Bob and Chris Snyder
Thomas Strong
Connie Sweeney
James P. Szantor
Debra and Bruce Thayer
Roger and Lynn Van Vreede
Kim Viney
Sue Vineyard
Andrea Wagoner and Roger Ruggeri
Don and Linda Weaver
Sarah and Mark Woerfel
Play It Forward Annual Fund
The Play It Forward Annual Fund raises financial support for operational Academy expenses, allowing Birch Creek to ensure our tuition fees remain affordable to most families.
To achieve this goal, we work with our communities of giving to raise funds that will bridge the gap between each family’s out-of-pocket tuition and the true cost of program delivery. With the intention to serve approximately 186 students each year, we seek to raise an annual minimum of $500,000.
Each student’s program cost is underwritten by $2,700 through gifts to Play It Forward.
True Cost of Program Delivery: $5,100 Play It Forward Donor Support: -$2,700
Remaining Student/Family Tuition Cost: $2,400
Birch Creek would like to give a monumental “Thank You!” to our Play It Forward donors for supporting our students for the 2025 Academy. Through your heartfelt and generous efforts, over $360,000 was raised in tuition assistance.
Your gift, in any amount, will ensure affordability to a broad and inclusive spectrum of promising young musicians. Donate online at BirchCreek.org/Support or contact the office at (920) 868-3763 or MainOffice@BirchCreek.org.
Photo by Michael Demchik
Photo by Michael Demchik
James R. Smith
Jennifer C. Hobart
Zachary
Amy M. Sullivan
Land Acknowledgment
Birch Creek Music Performance Center campus is located on the ancestral homeland of the Menominee, Oneida and Ho-chunk nations. As an organization that stewards our land and educates generations of music students, we acknowledge these nations who have stewarded this land throughout generations. We acknowledge the history of genocide and the forced cessation of their lands and pay respect to their elders past and present. This acknowledgment does not take the place of authentic relationships with indigenous communities; it serves as the first step in honoring this land and the people who cared for it.
Please thank our advertisers for their generous support by patronizing their businesses. If you would like to receive 2027
Manager at (920) 868-3763 or email marketing@birchcreek.org.
For the Safety and Convenience of Our Patrons
Birch Creek has policies in place on several important subjects. Please comply with instructions provided.
• Birch Creek concerts are professionally recorded for educational purposes. Due to copyright and performance contract restrictions, personal electronic devices including phones, tablets, recording or personal communications must be turned off once the concert has started. Recording during a concert is strictly prohibited.
• Service Animals that serve as active guides are permitted. Therapy animals and pets are not allowed on Birch Creek grounds.
• Weapons are prohibited without exception. As an educational institution, violators will be subject to law enforcement action.
• Weather alert information will be provided by Birch Creek staff in the event of potentially dangerous weather conditions.
• To ensure the health of our residential living environment for our faculty and students, we ask that the public and volunteers remain distanced from non-public areas.
