COMMUNITY ARTS-REACH KEY EDUCATORS, ARTIST, & DIRECTORS
Bernadette BJ Lark:
Bernadette BJ Lark, 35+ years experience as artist vocalist/ composer. Lark is founder and artistic director of commUNITY ARTSreach. She obtained her MBA, BBA, & Master studies in education. Currently serves as Program Organizer at Roanoke Democracy Center, and youth educator at Jefferson Center Music Lab. Lark shares in works with ARTivism Virginia, and a proactive community activist and advocate for those often silenced. In recent past, she served as Virginia Theomusicologist for Poor People’s Campaign. Lark worked with Roanoke City Public schools from 2005-2014 as an educator.
DeRon Lark:
DeRon Lark, a professional pianist, educator, and Roanoke native. Lark is the son of Novella & Elbert Wilson. Lark shares in his love of music/arts often with his wife, Bernadette BJ Lark. His spiritual parents Pastors Michael and Rose Neamo are profound in Lark’s living out his God-given potential. Lark educational studies are Social Science, with specialization in Education ( Degree). Lark is known for his passionate artistry, love for his family, engaging ministry, and numerous fellowship/service at countless churches, venues, and events 25+ years. Lark offers piano lessons to community members, and is thankful for his current music teachers ( always an opportunity to grow).
Lark started playing piano at a very young age under the tutelage of Carey E Dillard. He performs his piano music on everything from upright pianos to electric pianos. Beginning in the 90s he served as the lead pianist / musician for several Roanoke area churches including Bibleway Church, Greater Mt.Zion, Trinity Missionary Baptist, and Glorious Church. He currently serves as Minister of Music for Green Temple Holiness Church ( Salem & Wirtz VA ), and Mt.Zion AME ( Roanoke VA). He ministers regularly with his church choirs, and is a founding member of Victoriouz Praize. Lark’s love for God, and people extends into the community where he serves as Musical Director for CommUNITY ARTS-reach, and pianist for Jefferson Center Music Lab UPraize Band.
Amazetta Anderson:
Amazetta Anderson, a community leader , educator, and advocate. She serves on numerous community committees, and boards within Roanoke VA. Amazetta has educated many individuals on African drum knowledge, including serving at local area public schools.
Polly Branch:
Polly Branch is a painter, sculptor and community social and eco justice advocate of thirtyfive years, in the field of arts and local community relations. Through educational festivals, community art projects, commissions and special afterschool projects, Polly has collaborated with many individuals and groups. Masters in Arts, BA in Biology, and extensive studies in theology and personal healing modalities. A friend, who holds visions, however long it takes, to increase potentials for a thriving creative community for all.
Frances Tanner:
Frances Tanner, native of Bedford VA, mother of 2, and 8 grandchildren. After graduation from Liberty High, Tanner became in childcare and education assistant, which she worked in Bedford Public Schools as TA. She worked with Bedford Social Services and families by providing childcare in her home. Tanner relocated to Roanoke VA, and became certified as (CAD) Activities Director by National Certification council and (CDP) Activities Professional by National Council.
Tanner currently works as Dementia Practitioner’s, and is currently studying to complete Human and Social Services degrees. Tanner loves enriching the lives of those she serves such as the elderly population and youth. Tanner works to connect families in community to programs that meet their specific ADA needs. She is a mentor, and supervisor to others in the workplace. Tanner believes one of her purpose and gift is to help others in love, any kind of way that God would allow.
