A group of us parents and grandparents of young singers and dancers want to express our deep gratitude to Heather Burgess, former executive director of Island Choral Experience, for her musical brilliance, business and communication expertise and constant positive guidance. Heather has guided this extraordinary music program for over 10 years.

She greets each student with a genuine smile, makes a point of treating parents with respect and honesty. She addresses questions and concerns promptly, always listening carefully and responds cheerfully with patience, understanding and clarification.

During the COVID pandemic, Heather devised smart, safe, creative and productive strategies to continue the program, making sure its over 200 children continued to learn and grow. That, alone, is a monumental feat.

We say goodbye to her as she enters a new chapter in her life. Her love of music, integrity, positive and caring energy will be missed. She is the face and backbone of the choirs. Good luck to this remarkable woman.

— Parents, grandparents and friends of Island Choral Experience (past and present)