Meet the Department of Music Staff

A dynamic team consisting of many UC Santa Barbara alumni, the Department of Music Staff love serving the students and faculty at UC Santa Barbara. Whether you are planning your first student recital or need help registering for a class, the Department of Music Staff are committed to supporting you during your time at UC Santa Barbara.

David Holmes

Management Services Officer

David Holmes

“As the MSO of the Music Department I am the Chief Administrative Officer and provide management services, support, and oversight to every area of the department; from operations and academic advising to human resources and department finances. As the staff team leader, it is my responsibility to ensure team members are set up to succeed in their positions in a positive and supportive environment and that our team is providing the highest level of service and support possible to our students and faculty.”

David Cesca

Piano Technician

David Cesca

“I am the Piano Technician for the Music Department. I am responsible for the tuning and maintenance of the department’s 85 pianos and other keyboard instruments including two harpsichords, a celesta, and 17 digital keyboards in the piano lab. I also oversee the tuning and maintenance of two pipe organs. I have been with the department nearly 18 years as the sole piano technician, but have been fortunate at times in the past to have had two graduate student assistants with piano technology experience. My trade is unique and specialized yet very important to the success of musical performances, rehearsals, teaching, and practice.”

Adriane Cleary

Marketing and Communications Manager

Adriane Cleary

“We host over 150 events each year in the Department of Music, and I love being part of the team of faculty, staff, and students that make those events a reality. I enjoy sharing our events with the community, as well as sharing the exciting news and accomplishments of our faculty and students. I am a proud UC Santa Barbara alumna, having received my MM in Flute Performance with Professor Jill Felber.”

Heidi Dinnogen

Undergraduate Advisor

Heidi Dinnogen

“Hello! This is the start of my 5th year in Music and I LOVE working with undergrads as they navigate this amazing university and reach for their goals. I also graduated UCSB, served as a Peace Corps Volunteer, and then went on to receive a MA. I’ve been married for 12 years and we have two kids, two dogs, a cat and chickens. Hope to see you soon!”

David Farrar

Financial Analyst

David Farrar

“I manage the financial records for the Department, hiring, payroll, timekeeping, ordering, reimbursements, contracts, and upkeep of office equipment. While working, I hear violinists, opera singers, pianists, and other artists that makes being part of this Department so unique and enjoyable. I feel lucky to be part of the University and such a close knit community!”

Anthony Garcia

Production and Events Manager

Anthony Garcia

Photo by Gaby Goldberg

“As the Production Manager, I have the pleasure of working directly with our students and faculty to help them produce incredible performances. Apart from working with our performers, I most enjoy working with our fantastic staff and our team of student workers—without whom our productions wouldn’t be possible!”

Yasmine Ibrahim

Academic Personnel Coordinator

Yasmine Ibrahim

“I work on faculty recruitment, advancement, and other administrative issues. I am a proud Gaucho and I majored in political science. My favorite part about the department is hearing all the music that is going on! Feel free to stop by and say hi to me in the main office!”

Connor Long

Operations Manager/Technical Specialist

Connor Long

“I am both the Operations Manager and Technical Specialist. I help coordinate work orders for our facilities, manage our keys and instrument inventory, and work on various projects throughout the music building. On the tech side of things, I help run our productions, manage a team of student techs and ushers, and work as an audio and lighting engineer. Also, I work as recording/mixing engineer in the Kerr Hall Recording Studio, working with music majors and faculty. Lastly, I produce the Department of Music’s podcast, Through My Ears.”

Carly Yartz

Graduate Advisor

Carly Yartz

“Hi! I am the staff graduate advisor, and UCSB alumni, and have been in this position for over 10 years. I handle all things related to the graduate degree program including degree progress, admissions, funding, employment, and advising. I really enjoy working with the talented graduate students in the music department.”