Colorado Springs Conservatory is privileged to be guided in its mission by outstanding community leaders who recognize the importance of arts immersion and musical performance.
This month, we’re proud to shine our spotlight on our Board of Directors Chair, local business owner and Colorado Springs community advocate, Michelle Talarico. Michelle recently took some time to share some thoughts on her 10+ year involvement with the Colorado Springs Conservatory, as well as many of the other wonderful organizations which she is proudly part of.
Michelle, how long have you been on the Board of Directors for Colorado Springs Conservatory, and what positions have you held?
I’ve been a member of the board for at least 10 years and have served as Vice Chair, member-at-large, and currently as Chair.
What inspired you to sit on the board of the Conservatory, and what is your personal mission for the Conservatory?
I absolutely am inspired by all the work our mentors do and the pure joy and purpose that the kids find at the Conservatory. There is no other place quite like it.
In your opinion, what are some of the most significant ways that CSC contributes to the Colorado Springs community and to the youth of the region?
I think the Conservatory has helped many children find their passion. I love that we work with D2 and Harrison Schools, and I love our partner programs! To see the beaming smiles of a child after they have performed is priceless.
In what ways has being a part of the Conservatory enriched your life?
I have a broader understanding of how important vocal, theatrical, and musical talent is, and the need for support for our youngest generations.
Why do you believe music and performance education is important?
It is what connects us all as humans. To lose ourselves in a song, a number or a performance is truly magical and as important as anything else in this world.
Any advice to parents or guardians who are on the fence about committing to sending their kids to CSC?
It will open their minds and hearts to so many opportunities.
You are very active in the Colorado Springs community as an owner of Picnic Basket Catering Collective. What is the mission of PBCC and what are some of the ways the collective serves the Pikes Peak region?
Our primary mission is to serve the best quality food and service experience to all customers. Our bigger purpose is that, through our business, we have been able to give back millions of dollars in in-kind, complimentary, and donated services to our Colorado Springs community.
What are some of your favorite parts of living in Colorado Springs?
Seeing Pikes Peak every day is a privilege, working in a growing city is fascinating. We are all somehow connected in this big, small city!
What other boards do you sit on in the Pikes Peak region (or what other organizations are near & dear to your heart?)
SO many! NAMI, Pike Peak Hospice and Palliative Care Foundation Board, Colorado Springs Leadership Institute, Greenberg Center for Learning and Tolerance, Colorado Event Alliance, Care and Share, Colorado Springs Conservatory and the Wine Festival of Colorado Springs.
Michelle’s “Road Trip” Playlist:
Circles – Post Malone
Any Eminem song
Anything by Thomas Rhett
and I love Ed Sheeran and Brandi Carlisle
