Our Board

Volunteer board members believe that every child has incredible potential and using the Suzuki philosophy to teach music is one of the most effective ways to develop it. Board members come from various professional backgrounds in ​the community and some have been Aber Suzuki Center students themselves or parents of Aber Suzuki Center Alumni.

Matt Kolinski, President, joined the Board in 2023. He is a parent to three Suzuki children who play violin, viola, bass, piano and cello.

Ann Marie Novak, an ex-officio member of the Board since 2017, is the Director of Suzuki Programs. She is a Suzuki piano teacher and has been a faculty member at Aber Suzuki Center since 1992.

Pat D'Ercole joined the Board in 2017.  Pat is Director Emerita of the Aber Suzuki Center and a Suzuki violin teacher and teacher trainer. She joined the Aber Suzuki Center faculty in 1984.

Trevor Orthmann joined the Board in 2019. Trevor is Executive Director of the Illinois Symphony Orchestra and studied violin with Margery Aber. His career focuses on engaging and uniting communities through music performance and education. A native of Wausau, WI, Trevor lives in Springfield, IL with his wife, Liz.

Megan Kuehl joined the Board in 2018. Megan is an attorney working in the insurance industry. She is thankful for many years of music education throughout her youth and is an avid supporter of community music programs.

Jacquie Wille, Treasurer, joined the Board in 2022.

Joseph Luther joined the Board in 2019. A writer, marketer and father to a Suzuki graduate, he loves to experience music in all its forms and to support the musical aspirations of students of all ages.

Rachel Ley is a Suzuki alumnus with a background in work for nonprofits. Her experience spans consulting, project management and marketing. She joined the Board in 2023.