Today we’d like to introduce you to Tricia Andrews.
Hi Tricia, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Regarding my role as executive director at Headwaters Music & Arts, it all started when inclination met opportunity. I had been in management for a Girl Scout council for about 20 years, and had been thinking about what would be next for me. Stay with this job until retirement? Consider something new? Then, I was contacted by a board member at Headwaters Music & Arts and invited to apply. I started the job in April 2016, and have not regretted it for moment.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When I was hired, the challenge presented to me was the need to move Headwaters towards sustainability in our programs as well as our finances. We have made progress in both areas, with year round programming and a restructured billing process really making a difference.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
While much of my role as Executive Director focuses on administration, what truly energizes me is the creativity woven throughout the work. I get to ask big, meaningful questions every day: What programs and events best meet the needs and interests of our community? How do we tell our story in ways that feel innovative, authentic, and human?
I have the privilege of working alongside a wicked-smart administrative team and a dedicated, fun, and deeply committed board of directors. Together, we keep our eyes on a shared vision—to seek music, engage the arts, and build community—and we make decisions through that lens.
Headwaters Music & Arts offers individual music lessons on a wide range of instruments, including voice, along with group experiences such as pottery classes, art clubs, workshops, weekend intensives, and summer camps. While many people assume this work is just for kids, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Adults participate across all of our programs, and we also offer creative experiences designed specifically for grownups.
Many people first find their way to Headwaters through volunteer-led offerings like Open Mic, Campfire Jam, First City Singers, the Headwaters Bell Choir, or Chess Club. These entry points reflect who we are at our core: a welcoming place to create, learn, and feel connected.
What truly sets Headwaters apart from other community-based, multidisciplinary arts organizations is our deep commitment to accessibility. We’re located in the heart of downtown Bemidji, we raise funds each year to provide need-based scholarships, and in 2026 we’re launching an ambitious, organization-wide plan to make our building, programs, and communications even more accessible. Accessibility isn’t an add-on for us—it’s central to how we live out our mission.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I like so many things about Bemidji, especially the way it values and supports the arts. Having lived in Bemidji for over 35 years, I am no longer surprised when I first meet someone and immediately find out we have interests or friends in common. In so many ways, we are all connected.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.headwatersmusicandarts.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/headwatersmusicandarts/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@HeadwatersMusicArts
