Maestro for a Moment FUN-draiser 2024

Teresa Ford, a native of Gallipolis, graduated from Gallia Academy in 1981.  A French horn student of Rodney Tolliver’s and a piano student of her mother’s, the legendary teacher Marion Ford, Teresa pursued a career in music beginning at The Ohio State University under the tutelage of James Jones.  A ten year symphonic career followed upon her receipt of a Bachelor’s of Music Degree in French Horn Performance and a degree in law thereafter.  Teresa has been a practicing lawyer for 32 years, but has never lost her love of the arts, most specifically symphonic music.

Teresa’s mother, Marion, was instrumental in bringing the Ariel Theater to life.  A fifty year resident of Gallipolis, Mrs. Ford taught hundreds of piano students throughout her time in the French City.  Her fierce commitment to music education resulted in many arts initiatives in Gallia County including the touring Community Concerts series and the Ariel.  Her love of music was instilled in Teresa at an early age and she supported every musical endeavor that her head strong daughter wished to pursue (along with the horn, Teresa was a jazz singer for nearly 25 years; not exactly what her Julliard trained mother had in mind).  Teresa credits her mother’s talent, brilliance and unmatched intellect with the long and fulfilling musical career that Teresa enjoyed.

While Teresa studied conducting for one quarter with the renowned conductor Craig Kirchoff (she claims to have gotten an A, but as of press time this assertion cannot be confirmed), she doesn’t remember a thing about it! Her goal of being chosen as the Maestro for a Moment is to raise as much money as she can to support the Ariel Theater’s important and singular work in Gallia County.  It would make her mother proud and it would be one of the most important things she has ever accomplished in her careers as both a musician and an attorney. 

Russell Henchey, CPA, loves his community.  He’s a familiar face at various community events and functions where he’s on hand to help with raffles, golf outings, festivals, or sporting events where he volunteers when he isn’t working. Russell is Chief Financial Officer at Rivers Health.

If you’ve ever met Russell, you know he loves to have fun!  You may also notice that he doesn’t have a musical bone in his body.  His wife Jenny (who does have musical bones) is already working with him so he can be the best Maestro for a Moment The Ohio Valley Symphony and audience at the historic Ariel Opera House has ever seen!  (Well, at least since the last Maestro for a Moment competition).

What Russell lacks in rhythm, he makes up for in heart.  His fun loving nature is contagious, along with his generosity – which is why Russell is competing for donations to the OVS to receive the honor of being named the 2024 Maestro for a Moment.

I’m Arun Sharma, and I’ve proudly called Gallipolis home for over a decade.  Throughout my life, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting the Ariel Opera House several times, each experience leaving me in awe of its presence and the magic it brings to our community.

From the first time I stepped into the beautifully restored building, I was captivated by its rich history and stunning architecture.  The moment I took my seat and the lights dimmed, I felt a palpable excitement in the air.  Whether it was a breathtaking orchestral concert by The Ohio Valley Symphony or an engaging theater production, each performance reminded me of the incredible talent we have right here in Gallipolis.

I may not have a formal background in music, but my appreciation for the arts has grown immensely through these visits.  The Ariel is more than just a venue; it’s a place where stories come to life, and the shared experience of live performance fosters a sense of community that is truly special.

I’m also happily married and have two young children.  Recently, my eldest started taking piano classes at the theater, which has been a wonderful way for our family to connect with the arts in a more personal way.  Watching them explore their creativity and develop a love for music fills me with joy.

When I’m not enjoying performances at the Ariel or supporting my children’s musical journey, I love exploring the beautiful trails around Gallipolis and trying new recipes in my kitchen.  The moments spent at the Ariel Opera House resonate deeply with me, inspiring my love for creativity and connection.  I’m grateful to have such a vibrant cultural gem in our town, one that continues to unite and inspire us all.