For decades, the Chiu family has been an integral part of CMC, and their unwavering commitment to making music accessible to all. We have been fully committed to the center’s growth and success. Their deep ties to CMC have left an indelible mark on its mission of offering high-quality music education to individuals of all ages and backgrounds. This year, we are particularly proud to honor Sin-Tung Chiu for his lifelong dedication to CMC and his extraordinary contributions to music education.
The Chiu family’s journey with CMC began in the 1980s when Yanek and Mary, new residents of San Francisco, were searching for a music class for their daughter. They found exactly what they were looking for at CMC— an institution known for its dedication to quality music education and a nurturing environment. The family immediately fell in love with CMC’s mission of making music accessible to people from all walks of life.
Their connection to CMC deepened over time, especially when Yanek’s brother, Sin-Tung, moved to San Francisco from New York and began teaching violin at CMC. This familial bond to CMC has only strengthened, with the family’s involvement in various capacities, from teaching to financial support. The Chiu family has been donors since at least 1989, and Mary served on the board from 1998 to 2005. Yanek also contributed as a member of the Capital Campaign Committee, playing a key role in the successful expansion of the center.
For the Chiu family, it was CMC’s inclusive programs that stood out. The center’s commitment to providing education on a sliding scale, ensuring no one is turned away based on ability to pay, deeply resonated with them. From young students starting their musical journey to seniors rediscovering their love of music, CMC has always been a place of opportunity and growth.
Sin-Tung, a dedicated violin instructor at CMC for many years, has seen firsthand how the center has positively impacted students of all ages. “I have witnessed how effectively CMC works for the sake of all registered violin students, young and old, from ages 6 to over 80. Most remarkable!” Sin-Tung has dedicated his life to teaching at CMC, and the success stories of his students—many of whom have gone on to prestigious universities like Harvard, USC, and UC Berkeley—serve as a testament to the center’s impact.
For Sin-Tung, CMC has been more than just a place of work—it has been a home. “My story at CMC is really a family affair!” he reflects. His love for teaching, coupled with the deep impact of CMC’s inclusive environment, has inspired him to continue his work at the center for decades. The success of his students, many of whom have pursued careers in music and other fields, reaffirms his belief in the importance of music education.
One of the most meaningful experiences for the Chiu family has been the creation of the Bella and P.P. Chiu Memorial Scholarship Fund in 1995, established in honor of their parents. The scholarship provides opportunities for students needing financial assistance, ensuring they have access to the transformative power of music education. Over the years, the fund has supported numerous students, helping them achieve their musical dreams and make a positive impact in their communities.
Yanek and Sin-Tung’s sister, Yee-Wan Stevens, and her husband John have been dedicated supporters of CMC’s work, even from across the country. During their visit to the expanded campus last fall, they were impressed by the new facilities that provide much-needed space for performances, classrooms, and state-of-the-art teaching equipment. “The beautiful expansion of the campus provides extensive and much-needed additional space,” they shared, echoing the excitement the family feels about CMC’s continued growth.
Mary Chiu reflected on her time on the CMC Board during a pivotal transition: “My time on the CMC Board coincided with a pivotal transition of the institution. It was when Steve Shapiro stepped down after decades of excellent leadership, handing the baton to Chris Borg. Chris’s leadership during this time was instrumental in guiding the Board through the critical decision to expand with the purchase of the adjacent building. Despite the uncertainties, his vision and steady direction helped us navigate the challenges and set the stage for success.”
During this transition, the Board created a task force to raise funds for the newly acquired neighboring building. “I was privileged to be on that committee,” Yanek adds. “Halfway through the process, Chris Borg had to return to the East Coast, and we were blessed to have Julie Rulyak Steinberg step in heroically. She and Barbara Kosnar, then President of the Board, worked tirelessly, adjusting plans and bringing the neighborhood into our project. We did it, again with inspired leadership.”
The new campus will allow CMC to continue its noble mission for years to come, ensuring future generations of students have the resources and facilities they need to thrive. The Chiu family’s hope is that their support will enable CMC to reach even more students, especially those from low-income families, providing them with the tools to excel in music and life.
The Chiu family has seen how music can change lives through their long support of CMC, from teaching to helping fund scholarships. Their involvement has not only enriched their own lives but also helped many students. Their legacy shows how important music education is for people and communities. As CMC grows with its new campus, the Chiu family continues to support it, hoping to inspire future generations to value music and education. As Sin-Tung Chiu says, “CMC works, and I wish there were more Community Music Centers around America and in the world. CMC is a safe refuge for all.”
Join Us in Honoring the Chiu Family
Join us at CMC’s Spring Gala on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in San Francisco as we honor Sin-Tung Chiu and the Chiu family’s incredible legacy of supporting music education. This special evening will celebrate their dedication to making music accessible to all through a night of inspiring performances, a festive banquet, and an online auction. Your participation will help ensure that CMC continues to provide life-changing musical opportunities for generations to come.