My family knew Chaiya Drabkin as Amy, since we met 27 years ago when our son Noah wanted to learn to play the violin. She took him on and engaged his interest until he grew taller than she was, not a very hard accomplishment when your teacher is less than five feet tall!

Chaiya (Ami) Drabkin’s small size was deceptive. She was a powerhouse, some have said a force of nature. A talented musician, she taught piano, guitar, and violin to children and adults from her home, all while raising six children. She was also fluent in Spanish. Her music instruction was the first opportunity I had to see the passion she brought to everything she did. Always smiling and soft spoken, she prodded her students with stickers, hugs, and biannual community concerts. My husband, Bruce, and Joel Drabkin wore pink cummerbunds at one outdoor concert as Amy had them pass out drinks to attendees. Amy wanted everyone to enjoy the excitement of music as much as she did.