Armando Castellano (2nd from the left) shown here with Quinteto Latino.

Donor Spotlight on
Armando Castellano

The Community School of Music and Arts (CSMA) at Finn Center is honored to have the friendship and support of "Great Giver" Armando Castellano.

As a proud parent of Andreis Castellano (a student of CSMA's Adventures in Music program and our bi-lingual art class here at Finn Center), and husband of Andrea de Wit, Armando Castellano is intimately involved with CSMA's programs, outreach initiatives, and in helping to develop the vision for the future of the organization.

Armando has been an active and dedicated CSMA Board member for the past three years, and helped raise $11.7 million to build Finn Center, ensuring the Castellano Family Foundation's support of CSMA's Premier Gala Opening (2004).

Armando was also Entertainment Chair for CSMA's Gala Fantástica Committee, handling negotiations and hospitality for legendary Latin jazz percussionist Pete Escovedo's performance. Thanks to Armando's participation, this May 14th event helped raise $200,000 for CSMA's financial aid and arts education programs and furthered our important mission of Arts for All.

Currently, Armando chairs CSMA's Programs Committee and plays an instrumental role determining new programming and community outreach priorities. CSMA is delighted that, in the 2005-2006 fiscal year, Armando will also join the Executive Committee.

A professional French horn player and music educator, Armando is current director of the woodwind quintet, QUINTETO LATINO, which performed on Sunday in CSMA's Tateuchi Hall. In addition, Armando has played extensively in regional orchestras and other groups including Quadre, the San Francisco Opera, and the Marin, Monterey and Santa Cruz Symphonies. Armando taught bilingual classes at San Jose City College and East Palo Alto's Center for a New Generation for low-income and underserved youth, and is former Program Manager for Young Audiences, San Jose.

Thank you, Armando, for your generous investment in CSMA over many years. You have played an instrumental role in the success of this organization and have shown great strides in your role as a leader. We are truly grateful for all that you do. Thank you for furthering CSMA's outreach efforts in important and significant ways.