EXECUTIVE & ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

American cellist Ashley Bathgate has been described as an “eloquent new music interpreter” (New York Times) and “a glorious cellist”(The Washington Post) who combines “bittersweet lyricism along with ferocious chops”(New York Magazine). Her “impish ferocity”, “rich tone” and “imaginative phrasing” (New York Times) have made her one of the most sought after performers of her time. The desire to create a dynamic energy exchange with her audience and build upon the ensuing chemistry is a pillar of Bathgate's philosophy as a performer. Dynamism drives her to venture into previously uncharted areas of ground-breaking sounds and techniques, breaking the mold of a cello's traditionally perceived voice.

For ten years Bathgate was a member of the acclaimed sextet Bang on a Can All-Stars. She is also a member of the chamber music group HOWL, TwoSense with pianist Lisa Moore, and Bonjour, a low-strung, percussive quintet. She serves as the Artistic and Executive Director of Avaloch Farm Music Institute.

For more information about Ashley, please visit www.ashleybathgate.com

CO-ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

Jessica has garnered international acclaim as a soloist, recitalist and chamber musician, having been described as an "outstanding talent" (Performing Arts in Canada) with "keen sensitivity and receptivity" (Bloomington Herald Times), who "allow[s] us to savour her sense of ardour and intensity, but never at the detriment of her tonal beauty." (ClassiqueInfo France).

She has been a top prizewinner at the Eckhardt-Gramatté Competition, the Toronto Symphony, Canadian Music and Yellow Springs International Chamber Music Competitions and has served as first violinist of both the Vinca and Larchmere String Quartets, during which time she was Artist-in-Residence for the Perlman Music Program in Florida, the ProQuartet Odyssée Program in France and at the University of Evansville in Indiana. She serves as Violin Professor at the State University of New York at Fredonia, Chamber Music Director of the Composers Conference, Artistic Director of Music Beyond the Chamber, and Co-Artistic Director at Avaloch Farm Music Institute.

For more information about Jessica, please visit www.jessicatong.com

DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION & COMPLIANCE

Aby Fisher-Graham joined Avaloch as the Director of Administration and Compliance in May of 2024. Hailing originally from the Seacoast of New Hampshire, Aby brings a wealth of experience from both the public and private sectors. She previously managed the Grid Resiliency Program for the State of New Hampshire and spent over seven years at the Better Business Bureau, excelling as a Trade Practice Specialist and later as their Operations Lead. With a degree in Health Information Management from Eastern Gateway Community College and studies in Social Work at Rhode Island College, Aby is all about boosting organizational efficiency and building strong, resilient communities.

When she’s not on campus, Aby loves getting outdoors or curling up on the couch with a good book. You’ll find her 4-wheeling, paddleboarding, or just enjoying quality time with her husband, daughter, and their two dogs at their home in Boscawen, New Hampshire. Her upbeat spirit and diverse interests make her a beloved part of the Avaloch team.

MANAGER OF FACILITIES

Joe Dykeman grew up in the town of Swampscout, MA. He graduated from Essex Agricultural High School where he studied horticulture and floriculture. After school he worked as a automobile collision technician for 40 years. Returning to his love for landscaping, he was appointed as the Head of Maintenance at Avaloch Farm in 2019. Joe enjoys spending time with friends and family, riding his motorcycle, fishing and raising chickens. He has been happily married since 2009 to Kathy, has one child and three grandchildren of whom he is very proud.