Friday, October 16th

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Hamilton Room

Music is your calling and your passion, but not always your main source of income. How can we align our creativity with income-generating work, in a way that amplifies our artistry while contributing meaningfully to our community? There is no one right answer, but hear from four artists with meaningful side gigs, and get inspired to find your own! We will explore the fields of teaching artistry in schools and communities, artists in residence, working with churches, music schools, nonprofts, starting your own socially engaged project and more. 

Moderator

Joselyn Wilkinson, of Joselyn & Don

Speakers

Mary Scholz, Mary Scholz, Singer/Songwriter / Educator / Activist

Cheryl Branz, FAR-West , Board - Secretary

Gail Dreifus, Yosemite Songwriting Retreat, FAR-West Board Member

BIOS

Mary Scholz is a Los Angeles-based Americana singer-songwriter and dedicated activist whose music and weekly "Wednesdays" Instagram livestream guide her community toward political action on issues from climate and endangered species to voting rights and immigrant justice. She has performed at Sundance's ASCAP Music Cafe and SXSW, and brings nearly two decades of touring and a practice of turning audiences into participants. https://www.maryscholz.com

Gail Lynne Dreifus, a member of the FAR-West board. She’s a transplant from the east coast who landed near Yosemite National Park where she created a family musical program that she performed for years, winning an Interpretive Arts Award from the National Park Service. Gail is also an educator, presently teaching music part-time at a local charter school. Gail created and directs the Yosemite Songwriting Retreat which is now in its eleventh year. She plays guitar and ukulele, writing songs from the heart and with humor. Gail has performed in many musical ensembles and is currently in the duo, “Home Tonight” with her partner David Budries. Gail will be releasing a new CD in the Fall produced by Joe Craven.

Cheryl Branz is a regional performing singer-songwriter and the second-generation owner of a consumer show promotion company based in Spokane, WA. The existential crisis of joining the family business is what first led her to pick up a guitar. Known for her spot-on vocals and witty stage banter, she shares songs from the heartfelt to the hilarious with anyone willing to listen. https://cherylbranz.com