Meet our Team
Our team of qualified music therapists, community musicians and support staff bring together clinical expertise, creativity and compassion to deliver high-quality, person-centred care.
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Laura Festa
Director
A qualified and HCPC-registered music therapist, Laura brings a rich background in music, literature and community practice. She leads the charity while continuing clinical work, with a strong focus on inclusion, early years and dementia care. Passionate about building community through music, she champions sharing music therapy approaches with families, educators and care providers. -
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Stephen Poon
Music Therapist
Stephen is an HCPC-registered music therapist with a background in psychology and teaching. He works across a wide range of settings, supporting individuals with diverse needs through a flexible, person-centred approach. He is passionate about using music to enhance wellbeing and quality of life. -
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Craig Whitehead
Marketing Manager
Craig combines over a decade of experience as a professional musician with skills in photography and filmmaking. He supports the charity’s operations and storytelling, helping to bring its work to life and reach wider audiences. -
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Jacob Carlton
Music therapist
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Ben Herron
Community Musician
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Amanda Bond
Music Facilitator
Meet our Trustees
Our team of qualified music therapists, community musicians and support staff bring together clinical expertise, creativity and compassion to deliver high-quality, person-centred care.
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Sir Frederic Strickland-Constable
President
Fred is a farmer and long-standing supporter of the charity, having served as a Trustee for many years. A keen violinist, he has played in orchestras and chamber groups and brings a lifelong appreciation of music to his role.
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Jo Danischewsky
Trustee
Jo spent over 30 years in education, including senior leadership roles with responsibility for special educational needs. She brings deep experience in supporting young people and a strong commitment to inclusive practice.
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Nick Hammond
Trustee & Treasurer
Nick has a background in psychology and higher education, including leadership roles at the University of York and the Higher Education Academy. He also serves as Treasurer for a music charity, bringing both financial and sector insight.
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Alec Dickson
Trustee
Alec is a chartered surveyor specialising in rural property management across Yorkshire. He joined the board in 2022, bringing local knowledge and a long-standing appreciation of the charity’s work.
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Chris Hines
Trustee
With a background in education and a love of singing, Chris has seen firsthand the impact of music on wellbeing and communication. She is a passionate advocate for the charity and its work within the community.
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Sue Hoggett
Trustee
Sue is a former academic in genetics at the University of York with a lifelong passion for music. An active musician and photographer, she brings both scientific insight and creative perspective to the board.
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Kate Childs
Trustee
Kate supports the work of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees, contributing to its ongoing development and community impact.
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Edward Komocki
Trustee
Edward supports the work of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees, helping guide its direction and ensure its continued impact.
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Stephen Clift
Trustee
Stephen supports the work of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees, contributing to its governance and development.
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Robin Andrews
Trustee
Robin supports the work of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees, helping to strengthen its work within the community.
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George Gilmore
Trustee
George supports the work of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees, contributing to its strategic direction and growth.
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Robin Bellfield
Trustee
Robin supports the work of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees, helping to guide its ongoing work and impact.
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Anna Guest
Trustee
Anna supports the work of the charity as a member of the Board of Trustees, contributing to its mission and long-term development.