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About Us

Mission

The Making Music Matter Foundation promotes culture and community in Las Vegas—

and around the world—

through unparalleled musical performances and education programs.

Hands playing a piano keyboard

Get to Know Us

Based in Las Vegas, NV, the Making Music Matter Foundation was established in 2018--building on the success of its flagship ensemble, the Desert Winds, which was founded in August 2009--to provide exceptional musical performances and unparalleled music education programs for middle and high school students. The Making Music Matter Foundation oversees the Desert Winds, Chambers, Honor Winds, and Band and Orchestra Camps Reimagined.


The Foundation celebrates the vibrant tradition of woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments through full wind orchestra ensembles for both adults and students (the Desert Winds and Honor Winds), as well as smaller chamber groups (Chambers).

Along with providing performance opportunities for musicians in the Las Vegas community, the Making Music Matter Foundation nurtures the next generation of musical leaders. It oversees our Camps Reimagined, which provides intensive summer training for middle and high school students within Clark County and around the country.


Underneath the core belief that music and the arts are fundamental to elevating our community, the Foundation makes music and education accessible to all through free public performances, discounted ticketing, and scholarships. Connecting people through shared emotional experiences that mirror humanity remains central to our values.

Dr. Charles A. Maguire, Founder and Artistic Director of Making Music Matter Foundation

Founder

Dr. Charles A. Maguire

Founder and Artistic Director

Board of Directors

Karla Kelley, President of Making Music Matter Foundation in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Karla Kelley
President

Dr. Carmella Cao, Vice President of Making Music Matter Foundation in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Dr. Carmella Cao
Vice President

Monica Guido, Board Member and Honor Winds Education Coordinator at Making Music Matter Foundation in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Monica Guido
Board Member

Honor Winds — youth wind ensemble
Chambers — small ensembles
The Desert Winds — wind ensemble

Staff

The Desert Winds logo
Chambers logo
Honor Winds logo

Dr. Charles A. Maguire, Founder, Artistic Director and Principal Conductor

Associate Conductor: Vacant

Dr. Carmella Cao, Personnel Manager

Each event individually curated

Monica Guido, Education Coordinator

David Martinez, Middle School

Marlene Meagher, High School

Brian Marsh, Chief Financial Officer

Finn Caole, Librarian

Evon Mae Respress, Social Media Manager

Edwin Porciuncula, Graphic Designer

Dim Chadoulas, Web Designer

Making Music Matter Foundation logo
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National music standards review information
Featured Article

National Music Standards Review: What Teachers Should Know

National music standards are under review. Learn what music teachers, families, and community members should know about the goals, timeline, and opportunity to help shape the next version.

Read the Article