It all begins with an idea.

MusicWings is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization co-founded in 2023 by Alice and Paul Cotter. Through their work serving families at Little Bird Music in Truckee, Alice and Paul saw firsthand both the profound impact of music education and the barriers that can limit access. MusicWings was created to help bridge those gaps—offering financial support, community programming, and meaningful musical opportunities for students throughout the Truckee-Tahoe region.

Alice Cotter, PhD, is a music educator, public scholar, and community arts advocate. She holds a PhD in Musicology from Princeton University and has dedicated her career to teaching, mentoring, and creating spaces where people of all ages can experience connection, creativity, and growth through music. In her work with both Little Bird Music and MusicWings, Alice is guided by a deep belief in music as a force for belonging, expression, and human connection.

Together, Alice and Paul are committed to building a more inclusive and vibrant musical community—one where every student has the opportunity to learn, create, and be heard.

Alice Cotter, PhD, MusicWings Executive Director and Co-Founder. Photo credit: Polina Vayner @LaikaStudioPhotography

Our team

MusicWings is made of a board of directors who share a love of music and a desire to make a positive impact on our community.

Board of Directors:

Christine Braud, Community Outreach Coordinator

Dan Hikel, Event Production and Sound Support

Kathy Shaffer, Secretary and Communications Coordinator

Lisa Toutant, Strategic Planning

Molly O’Dell, Treasurer

Paul Cotter, Board Chair and Co-Founder

Ambassadors:

Zach Lauzon

Crystal Boutelle

Val Collins

Junior Ambassadors:

Sasha Vayner

Ella Nishimori

Riley Braud

Cooper Shaffer

Ingrid Cotter

Robyn Vayner

Cruz Snover

Bella Boutelle