Joel Pierce

President

M.M., Pianist, Educator

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Joel Pierce is a dedicated pianist, organist, conductor, and private piano instructor based in Topsham, Maine. With a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance and a Master’s in Organ Performance/Sacred Music from the University of Arizona, Joel has built a thriving piano studio, teaching dozens of students of all ages in the Brunswick and Topsham areas. He also serves as organist and choir director at his local church, where he shares his passion for music and collaboration. Joel's commitment to nurturing musical talent aligns perfectly with The Gift of Music's mission, as he believes in making quality instruction accessible to inspire the next generation of musicians.

Dr. John Crispin

Vice-President

M.D., Pianist, Tenor Extraordinaire

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John Crispin is a retired anesthesiologist living in mid-coast Maine, where he has resided for over 15 years on Westport Island. After a 35-year medical career, John now dedicates a portion of his time to music, singing in the Wiscasset church choir and playing piano. A family man with four children and grandchildren spread across the country, he brings a lifelong appreciation for the arts and community involvement to his support of The Gift of Music. John's personal experience with music as a source of joy and connection drives his enthusiasm for helping Maine children overcome financial barriers to private lessons, ensuring every child can discover and develop their musical gifts.

Wendy Kopera

Secretary

Dog Lover, Alto Extraordinaire

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​Wendy Kopera is a compassionate advocate for animals and community causes. She is a founder of Canine Companions Rescue Center (CCRC) in Michigan, a nonprofit she helped establish in 2004 to rescue and rehome dogs with an inclusive, no-kill vision. As a long-time board member and key leader, Wendy has poured her energy into building sustainable programs that make a meaningful difference in lives—both animal and human. Now supporting The Gift of Music, she brings the same dedication to expanding opportunities for Maine's children, believing that access to private music lessons fosters creativity, discipline, and lifelong joy, much like the transformative impact of rescue work.