Welcome

Message from the President and CEO

Greetings!
On behalf of the Board of Directors of the American Pianists Association (APA), I would like to welcome you to our website as the APA celebrates its 29th year of promoting American pianists.

As you navigate through each area of our site, I hope you will get a clear picture of what we do in support of this most demanding art form. The APA is a many-faceted organization whose main interest is furthering the careers of young, gifted pianists.

The APA is fortunate to have found its home in this vibrant Midwestern city, that has risen to the challenge of supporting this national organization.  Indianapolis has a dynamic blend of public and private leaders who understand and promote the link between a thriving economy and quality of life factors in which the arts play a critical role.

City leaders, including those from The Lilly Endowment, are energizing our community with a Cultural Tourism initiative that focuses collaborative energy and resources on the arts. The American Pianists Association is pleased to play an important role in the continued development of these plans.

In the year 2003, the American Pianists Association took ownership of a huge, albeit fledgling, jazz festival, called Indy Jazz Fest presented by Kroger. This three-day, multi-staged event brings national and international jazz icons to our city in celebration of our rich jazz heritage. The music, the food and the diverse cultures represented here are emblematic of a truly international city.

I encourage you to read on and learn more about our many programs and functions. Don't forget that we are a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit corporation, which exists solely through the generous support of the public. Please click here to learn how you can support our work and become a "Friend of the APA."

I hope you enjoy your time spent here.

Sincerely,
Helen H. Small President/CEO

Ms. Small has over 20 years of experience in marketing, public relations, fund raising and financial management in the not-for-profit sector. In her nine years at the APA, she has led the organization through a period of unprecedented growth, establishing institutional practices that foster successful fund raising and increased public awareness on local and national fronts. Her professional background includes senior level positions at the Indiana Literacy Foundation, the Indiana Repertory Theater, Cathedral Arts and the International Violin Competition of Indianapolis. Ms. Small has a Master of Arts in Education from Indiana University and has attended the Fund Raising School at the I.U. Center on Philanthropy