Stephanie Rickard has cultivated a versatile career that intersects music performance, music education, and arts administration. She is deeply passionate about the importance of the arts in building community and connection. Her passion for the arts and their role in fostering community and connection has been a constant driver in her professional journey.

A seasoned French Horn performer, Stephanie regularly performs with numerous Bay Area groups including the San Francisco Symphony, San Jose Chamber Orchestra, Marin Symphony, California Symphony, and many others. She is also the co-founder, co-director, and Horn player of the wind octet Nomad Session which is the first wind octet of its kind. Since its inception in 2016, Nomad Session has commissioned and arranged over 30 works, recorded an album, and been Artists in Residence with the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

Stephanie is equally passionate about music education and fostering a love of music in students. She has maintained private studios and taught lessons to a diverse range of students, from ages 7 to 65. Additionally, she spent seven years teaching beginning trumpet in the San Mateo-Foster City School District, impacting thousands of students during her tenure.

Her passion for arts administration was sparked by her desire to support arts educators and performers in their vital work. In her administrative work Stephanie has focused on building strong, engaging, and inclusive communities. Her emphasis on clear communication and robust organizational systems fosters creativity, reduces burnout, and enhances team collaboration, driving innovation and growth within the organizations she serves.

Stephanie holds a Bachelor's degree in Music Performance from the University of Wyoming and a Master's degree in Horn Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.

Stephanie's Goals for PYO

"I am thrilled to join Peninsula Youth Orchestra during this exciting time of change. The organization's deep commitment to community is truly inspiring, and I am eager to help nurture and expand this value. My goal is to build upon the current foundation and strengthen organizational systems to allow for further growth, increasing our impact on the communities we serve. I look forward to collaborating with the PYO community, the board, and the phenomenal staff to inspire each other, shape the future, and build towards our shared dreams together."