A multi-talented musician and much-honored music educator, Bob Athayde grew up in Oakland, California, in a family that encouraged singing and playing music. His first instrument, at age 9, was the cornet; he later switched to trumpet and earned a BA in music and music education from Cal State Hayward (now CSUH). An interest in chords and harmony led him to the piano, which he has played professionally in duos, trios, and larger ensembles, as well as in solo performances. He began teaching music in East Bay public schools in 1974, and since 1986 has taught at Stanley Middle School in Lafayette, where he currently serves as music director, leading five bands, two jazz ensembles, and one chorus. During the summer months, Bob has taught at Suzuki String Workshops, the Sitka (Alaska) Fine Arts Camp, the Silver Lake Band Camp, and Cazadero Performing Arts Camp. Since 1998, Bob has directed the Lafayette Summer Music Workshop, where he manages 200 students (ages 11 to 80), 45 instructors, 25 combos, and 30 volunteers. Until its COVID closure, Bob played solo piano three nights a week at La Finestra Restaurant in Moraga, California. Since March 2020, he has played from his home on Facebook Live (also visible via direct link), Fridays and Saturdays from 6 to 7 p.m.