About

Supervisor Joel Engardio posted on one of his newsletters looking for volunteers to start a Sunset Community Band and we answered! 

Nina Strachan has been playing music since she was growing up in the Bay Area and wants to give back to the community that she calls home now. Nina plays the saxophone and flute and participates in community bands around the Bay Area.

"Having played in all sorts of bands during my childhood and college, I really miss it in my adult life and I hope to bring this band to all the other musical folks who are missing this community just as much as I am." - Nina Strachan

Alex Strachan has been involved in community music since coming to the Bay Area a decade ago. He’s since played with and conducted a number of ensembles around the bay including the Oakland Civic Orchestra where he is the principal horn and assistant conductor.

“As a longtime community music participant I’m a huge advocate for groups where people passionate about music can come together and play. Community building is more important than ever and I’m excited to help bring the sunset musical community together” - Alex Strachan

Allyson Ward is a music educator and performer based in San Francisco. Allyson teaches music at Capuchino High School and the School of the Arts. Allyson met Alex and Nina playing in the Oakland Civic Orchestra. 

“Coming from a prestigious classical background, I realized I wanted music to feel easily accessible to all. I want to create a welcoming environment for young musicians where they feel like they can explore music instead of feeling like they need to stay in a box.” - Allyson Ward