ABOUT US
At Healing Music Seeds, we believe every child deserves access to the transformative power of music. By integrating SEL principles into music education, we inspire children to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally, while empowering them to become resilient, compassionate leaders in their communities.
Healing Music Seed is a non-profit organization based in Healing Music Seeds is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Natomas, California, dedicated to providing low-cost music lessons, instruments, and scholarships to financially underserved children and teens. Founded in 2020 by Cindy Su, we aim to make music education accessible to all, regardless of socio-economic barriers.
Music is more than an art form; it is a vital tool for personal and emotional growth. Through music, children develop key social-emotional learning (SEL) skills, such as self-awareness, empathy, emotional regulation, and effective communication. These skills enable students to navigate challenges, build meaningful relationships, and thrive in their personal and academic lives.
Our holistic programs also emphasize discipline, creativity, and perseverance. They instill valuable life skills while fostering a deep sense of community through shared musical experiences. By connecting young people and their families through music, we strengthen bonds and create opportunities for collaboration, understanding, and growth.
Mission, Vision, Values
At our core, we believe that all children and families deserve access to the transformative power of music. Our mission is to fulfill this belief by providing tailored music lessons and instrument donations that enable children to discover the joy and healing potential of music. Through our efforts, we seek to empower children and families, helping them to unlock their potential and achieve their dreams.
We aim to create a more equitable society that values and supports the arts by providing access to music lessons and instruments. Our goal is to help children thrive and achieve their full potential, both as musicians and as members of their communities.
Core Values
Access
We believe that all children should have access to the transformative power of music education.
Creativity
Creativity is a vital component of music education. Learning an instrument encourages students to embrace creativity.
Learning
Our dedicated approach to teaching is designed to empower students with the skillset they need to thrive as lifelong learners.
Meet the Team
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Cindy Su
Executive Director & Secretary
Cindy Su is a passionate musician and founder of Healing Music Seeds and Natomas Music Square, dedicated to providing thoughtful and nurturing music education for children of all backgrounds. Raised in Taiwan, she began playing piano at age 4 and pursued a rigorous music education at the competitive Taiwan Music Institute, but lost her love for music due to intense pressure. Cindy moved to the US as a child and became an accomplished viola player, earning numerous awards and participating in the Camilla Symphony.
Despite her success in music, Cindy chose to pursue a career as a dietitian after high school but soon realized that her true passion was music education. She began teaching piano and found inspiration in sharing her love for music in a nurturing and non-competitive way, unlike her own experiences in Taiwan.
Cindy's dedication to music education stems from her belief that all children should have access to the benefits of learning an instrument, regardless of their background. When she's not teaching, Cindy spends time with her son, who is learning to play the drums and piano. Cindy's love for music is evident in everything she does, and she hopes to inspire future generations of musicians through her teaching and organizations. -
Erik Stillabower
Chair
Erik Stillabower is a highly accomplished musician and educator with a passion for bringing music to everyone. He earned degrees in music and political science from Indiana University, where he honed his performing skills. Erik has delighted audiences across the Midwest and California with his talent and has earned a reputation as a gifted musician.
In addition to his performing career, Erik has also served as the executive director and teacher at Rox Performance, a non-profit music school in Pittsburgh, PA. In this role, he has helped countless students discover their own musical talents and develop a lifelong love of music. Erik is deeply committed to the idea that music education should be accessible to all, and he works tirelessly to create opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to explore the world of music. -
Peter Ash
Treasure
Peter, a doctor, and accomplished pianist and guitarist always recognized the transformative power of music. After taking piano lessons from Cindy, he was inspired by her passion and dedication to music education and knew he wanted to help her follow her dreams.
"Follow your dream and I will help you," Peter said to Cindy, and with those words, she founded Natomas Music Square, a thriving music studio that has helped countless students discover their love for music. Peter's ongoing support has been instrumental in the success of Cindy's latest venture, Healing Music Seed. As a firm believer in the healing potential of music, he provided Cindy with the support she needed to create a non-profit organization that provides free music lessons and instruments to financially disadvantaged children and teens. -
Dijana Quinnett
Communications Director
Dijana’s life dances to the rhythm of music and the strokes of art. From her earliest days, she embraced piano keys, flute melodies, and the magic of singing. Her love for the arts propelled her toward a coveted scholarship at San Francisco’s prestigious Academy of Art College.
But Dijana’s canvas extended beyond formal education. At Foothill College, she explored diverse genres—guitar, jazz vocals, sound engineering, and songwriting. Her musical palette knew no bounds, allowing her to harmonize with fellow artists across jazz clubs, rock stages, hip-hop beats, and pop melodies.
Yet, Dijana’s passion transcends the spotlight. She finds fulfillment in nurturing young hearts, igniting their love for art and music. Diana’s artistry isn’t just about personal achievement—it’s about kindling that same spark in others, especially the little dreamers. 🌟🎶🎨