Growing up in a musical family is responsible for Mrs. Slopek's love of music, poetry and the arts. She enjoys playing the piano and organ, but her passion was the trumpet. As a performer, Mrs. Slopek participated in brass ensembles, brass choirs, and orchestras. She has also received a national award for her skills as a lyricist.

Her grandfather and father were exceptional artists. A graduation portrait of her father, painted by her grandfather, hangs in her home today. Her mother, now 86, was a singer and pianist on KQV Radio during the 1940's, and her brother is a bass guitarist who has performed in several Pittsburgh bands.

Mrs. Slopek became the Executive Director of the Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra three seasons ago. Prior to her venture into the non-profit sector, Mrs. Slopek's business experience includes institutional financial management, sales and marketing, and business ownership.

Mrs. Slopek is excited to be part of the Pittsburgh Youth Philharmonic Orchestra family, and looks forward to many years of working with the organization's wonderful students, parents and exceptional staff.

In her spare time, Mrs. Slopek enjoys listening to every genre of music (especially the PYPO ensembles), swimming, reading, and gardening. She and her husband of 25 years, Greg, and their two sons, Travis and Grant, reside in Cranberry Township with their two labrador retrievers Onyx and Angel. Her son, Travis, is a violinist with PYPO.