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Staff
Guided by Care, Creativity, and Community
Meet Our Team
Rooted in hope, care, and teamwork.
Currently Beyond the Bars employs over 40 incredibly talented and driven community based teaching artists who contribute to the everyday planning and execution of programming. Whether teaching music or strategically planning how to best help our students, Beyond the Bars staff are vital to it running.
Co-Executive Director
Christopher is a graduate of West Chester University with degrees in Philosophy and Anthropology and has over nine years of experience with Beyond the Bars. He brings deep expertise in youth education, music instruction, and community partnership building across Philadelphia.
Co-Executive Director
Matthew began teaching in Philadelphia public schools as a history and music teacher before launching the original Beyond the Bars program at PICC. A Temple University graduate (Summa Cum Laude), he combines education, performance, and nonprofit leadership experience.
Program Director
Becca (she/they) is a music educator, teaching artist, and longtime member of Philadelphia’s arts community. A graduate of Ithaca College, they bring years of experience leading youth music programs and cultivating student-centered creative spaces.
Program Manager
Matthew is a Temple University jazz studies graduate and professional musician who leads Beyond the Bars’ external programming. He oversees curriculum development and supports students through holistic, community-based music education.
Student Coordinator
Jade is a producer and teaching artist who supports youth in discovering their creative voice through music. They work closely with students to connect them with programs, resources, and supportive creative communities.
Operations Manager/Lead Facilitator
Norman is a producer, DJ, and music educator with over 20 years of industry experience. Since joining Beyond the Bars in 2022, he has led student-centered programming focused on healing, growth, and creative expression.
Lead Facilitator
Kayin is a trained audio engineer and recording artist who has worked with dozens of Philadelphia-based musicians. He co-founded the Practical Producers Program and supports students through songwriting and studio education.
Resource Connector / Lead Facilitator
A’Jon is a multidisciplinary artist, music facilitator, and founder of WAU (We Ain’t Underground). They guide students through songwriting, performance, and leadership while connecting youth to creative and professional opportunities.
Resource and Operations Coordinator
Jack is a professional audio engineer who began supporting Beyond the Bars through equipment donations and volunteer teaching. He now leads lab development and coordinates programs across the organization’s citywide ecosystem.
Program Support and Administrative Coordinator
Amira is a lifelong musician and educator with a background in piano, vocals, and music technology. She supports program operations while continuing her studies in sound recording and music performance.
Our Team, Our Community
Expanding to Run Community Based Programming
Currently Beyond the Bars employs over 40 incredibly talented and driven community based teaching artists who contribute to the everyday planning and execution of programming. Whether teaching music or strategically planning how to best help our students, Beyond the Bars staff are vital to it running.