We're Happy to Introduce
Our Talented Team
We believe that anyone and everyone can enjoy the gift of music. Plum Grove Music empowers people to explore the joys of discovery through music-making, enhanced by quality instruments and education. Our passion is to “Share Joy through Music” by providing high-quality instruments and exceptional customer service. At Plum Grove Music, we aim to enhance your life journey by enriching your world with music education.
RICK THACKER
Owner & Luthier
Violin has been a part of Rick's life since he started private lessons at the age of three. He later studied viola and taught both for more than a decade.
Rick played in many ensembles, most notably as Concertmaster for the Advanced Ensemble at Chicago School of Violin Making. Now he conducts multiple string ensembles of various abilities. He received his Suzuki certification in teaching, along with other pedagogy courses.
In addition to his passion for teaching, Rick has used his training as a certified luthier from the
world's top rated school to help the next generation of shop technicians learn the art of violin making and instrument repair. He has also built several fine instruments, including the violin he gifted to his wife on their wedding day.
Rick's love for stringed instruments and his passion for the community has since melded into the
establishing of Plum Grove Music. He, along with his wife Elizabeth and their six children, can be found actively involved in the music scene of Northwest Indiana. He is the current board president for the Lakeside Artists Guild and has also served on the NASMD Board.
Amber is a lifelong musician whose journey began at the age of three with formal piano lessons. During her college years, she toured the nation for two summers as the pianist for a vocal group. She completed some of her studies abroad in England and holds a Master's Degree in Education from Crown College.
With over ten years of teaching experience, Amber now brings her passion for music education to Plum Grove's lesson program. She facilitates different avenues for student growth throughout the lesson program, along with helping to provide multiple performance opportunities for the students.
Amber Griffin
VP of Education
ANTHONY WONAITIS
VP of Operations/Repair Shop Manager
Anthony graduated from Lewis University with his Bachelor's degree in Music Business & Marketing and was placed on the Dean's list while in attendance.
Anthony is a signed recording artist in the music industry. His band has done national touring, gained national publicity, and worked with renowned Platinum Record Producers.
He has worked in the past doing marketing for record label Thrill Jockey Records as well as for his own recording, photography, and musical endeavors. Anthony has been able to use his past experiences in the music industry to further cement Plum Grove's place in Northwest Indiana.