Manchester Community Music School Welcomes New Members to Board of Directors
MANCHESTER, NH — [October 14th, 2026] — Manchester Community Music School (MCMS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Thomas Evans and Frederick “Rick” Otte to its Board of Directors. The new members bring experience in law, technology, and community service to support the school’s mission of changing lives through the power of learning, sharing and making music.
Evans is pursuing his Juris Doctor at the University of New Hampshire Franklin Pierce School of Law, with graduation expected in May 2027. He earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, cum laude, from Springfield College, where he served as president of the Criminal Justice Club and earned All-American recognition in varsity football. His professional experience includes legal research and support at Manchester law firm Cronin Bisson & Zalinsky. An avid campfire guitarist, Evans also enjoys coaching youth baseball and training for triathlons.
“Some of my favorite experiences with music are the simplest ones. Picking up a guitar and bringing people together,” said Evans. “I’m excited to join the MCMS board and do this at a massive scale, supporting a school that gives people of all ages opportunities to learn, build confidence, and connect through music.”
Otte is a retired senior software professional with more than 40 years of experience in software development and corporate IT support. Throughout his career, he contributed to commercial software projects and helped organizations grow through technology management, software development and integration, and technical support. In retirement, he enjoys volunteering, singing, gardening, golfing, reading, walking, and hiking.
“As an MCMS parent, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative role this school can play. My son is an alumnus and is now thriving as a teacher and professional trumpet player in Texas,” said Otte. “I’m thrilled to join the board and help others find the same opportunities to learn, grow, and build a life enriched by music that my son has experienced.”
As board members, Evans and Otte will provide strategic guidance and financial oversight, helping ensure that MCMS manages its resources responsibly and upholds best practices in nonprofit governance. They will also support fundraising, strengthen community partnerships, and serve as ambassadors for the school, expanding access to music education and music therapy, and deepening MCMS’s impact throughout Greater Manchester.
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About Manchester Community Music School
Manchester Community Music School is a nonprofit organization dedicated to changing lives through the power of learning, sharing and making music. Through private lessons, ensembles, classes, and music therapy, MCMS provides opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to experience the benefits of music. Join MCMS at our annual Holiday Pops show December 4th 2026 and see the impact of our work first-hand mcmusicschool.org/pops
Media Contact:
Marlén Rodríguez-Wolfe: Director of Marketing & Development