North Palm Youth Symphony
Board of Directors
Kaitlin Seto, President
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Kaitlin Seto (previously Kaitlin Springer) is an accomplished violist based in the Tampa Bay area, recognized for her dynamic performances and deep commitment to music education. Through her dedication to her craft and her commitment to nurturing
the next generation of musicians, Kaitlin has had the privilege to work toward having a great impact on her local community.
For the past five years, Kaitlin has served as a Teaching Artist with The Florida Orchestra, where she has brought her passion and expertise to public school orchestra classes throughout Pinellas County. In addition, Kaitlin is a Viola Professor at the
University of Central Florida, where she inspires and guides the next generation of musicians with her insightful teaching and mentorship. Kaitlin’s teaching philosophy is to meet students where they are at and to help bring them up to that next level of
artistry through technique and focused practice. She has created a practice blog (www.SetoViola.com) to help her students practice for auditions and events they are preparing for. Kaitlin is also honored to serve the North Palm Youth Symphony as President of the Board, an organization that is dedicated to providing students a world class orchestral experience in an inclusive, positive, and nurturing environment.
Kaitlin's extensive musical training includes studying under some of the most renowned viola instructors in the country, including Michelle LaCourse at Boston University, Rita Porfiris at Hartt School of Music, and Ralph Fielding at Lynn Conservatory. Through their guidance, Kaitlin has developed a strong foundation in music that has allowed her to continually grow and evolve as a musician.
Kaitlin's commitment to achieving mastery on the viola and her dedication to lifelong learning have earned her a reputation as a sought-after performer throughout the Tampa Bay area. She approaches each performance and practice session with extreme focus, always striving to be the best musician she can be.
Susan Bickel, Member
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Susan Bickel is a native North Palm Beach resident with a passion for supporting the Arts. Mrs. Bickel was first elected to the Village of North Palm Beach Council in 2017 and currently serves asVice Mayor. Mrs. Bickel previously served as Mayor in 2020, and President Pro Tem in 2018. In addition to her work with the North Palm Youth Symphony, Mrs. Bickel also helped to create the North Palm Beach Art Show.
Mrs. Bickel earned her undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and holds a Master's in Education from the University of Pennsylvania and has been an educator for over 30 years. She is currently the Science Coordinator and Science Department Chair at The Benjamin School and won the American Association of Chemistry Teachers’ Teacher of the Year award in 2019.
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Trevor Drushal, Member
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Heather Fernandez holds two Bachelor degrees in Exercise Science and Nursing. She has been working in the medical field for over 15 years in supervisory and clinical roles. In 2015, she served a co-founder for the Seaside Youth Symphony, a non-profit 501(c)3 arts education organization that she operated and which became the foundation for our orchestra program today. Ms. Fernandez is also a co-founder for the North Palm Youth Symphony, and her work behind the scenes has greatly contributed to the continued growth and success of NPYS. Heather is an avid supporter of homeschooling and the arts and homeschools her three children.
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Heather Fernandez, Secretary
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Heather Fernandez holds two Bachelor degrees in Exercise Science and Nursing. She has been working in the medical field for over 15 years in supervisory and clinical roles. In 2015, she served a co-founder for the Seaside Youth Symphony, a non-profit 501(c)3 arts education organization that she operated and which became the foundation for our orchestra program today. Ms. Fernandez is also a co-founder for the North Palm Youth Symphony, and her work behind the scenes has greatly contributed to the continued growth and success of NPYS. Heather is an avid supporter of homeschooling and the arts and homeschools her three children.
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Kevin Seto, Treasurer
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Kevin Seto is a highly accomplished violinist known for his exceptional talent as a soloist, chamber musician, recitalist, and pedagogue, captivating audiences across the United States.
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Currently, he is a member of the Palm Beach Opera and the Atlantic Classical Symphony, showcasing his virtuosity and musical sensitivity. He also collaborates regularly with The Florida Orchestra, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and sought-after performer.
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As a dedicated pedagogue, Mr. Seto serves as a String Specialist for the Pinellas County Schools, actively engaging with teachers and students and sharing his expertise as an professional violinist. Beyond the classroom, he serves as bookkeeper for the North Palm Youth Symphony, combining his passion for the supporting the arts with his financial and bookkeeping expertise.
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Kevin Seto earned his Masters Degree from The Hartt School of Music under the tutelage of the renowned Anton Miller. During his studies, he had the honor of participating in the esteemed Performance 20/20 Honors Chamber Music Program, honing his collaborative skills and musical expression. He holds an undergraduate degree from the Bower School of Music, where he flourished under the guidance of Patrick Neal.
An avid hiker, when not playing the violin, Mr. Seto dedicates his time to the outdoors, filming, hiking and enjoying nature.