David Sands
Founder & Executive Director
David Sands (they/them) is a cellist, educator, and arts leader based in Chicago, Illinois. A graduate of DePaul University and former Assistant Principal Cellist of the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, David has built a multifaceted career spanning performance, recording, education, and arts leadership.
As a performer, David has appeared with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s MusicNOW series, Chicago Fringe Opera’s A City of Works, and The Line-Up at Wrigley Field. Their studio and recording credits include contributions to Chi-Raq directed by Spike Lee, the television series Empire (“Mama”), and a 2023 Lexicon Classics release of Haydn’s Schottische und Walisische Volkslieder.
An in-demand clinician and mentor, David has led masterclasses and educational residencies for the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, DePaul University, and North Park University, working with young artists to cultivate both technical excellence and artistic agency.
Beyond the stage of playOUT!, David is a dynamic cultural leader. They currently serve as Senior Advancement Manager for Apollo's Fire and an adjunct faculty member at DePaul University for future Music Educators. Their leadership in the city’s cultural landscape was recently recognized through their selection as one of Center on Halsted’s Inclusive Future Leaders, honoring emerging changemakers shaping a more equitable Chicago.
Jiana avila
Program associate
Jiana Avila (she/her) is a born and raised Chicagoan, violinist, and intrapreneur. She is a 2024 graduate of DePaul University, where she studied Entrepreneurship.
Jiana grew up at The People’s Music School, a nonprofit that provides 100% tuition-free music education. Her creative upbringing changed the trajectory of her life, instilling in her a deep appreciation for the nonprofit sector and a passion for community building.
Her career has allowed her to explore the intersection of creativity, community, and operations. With experience in hospitality, event planning, and administration, she is particularly interested in the behind-the-scenes work that allows artists and organizations to do their best work.
Jiana is especially passionate about creating spaces where individuals feel supported and seen. She values work rooted in social justice and is committed to uplifting marginalized voices and communities through the arts. She is excited to bring these values, along with her curiosity and hands-on approach, to her work supporting the programs and daily operations of playOUT! Chicago.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Karen Darling - President
VP Sales, Kodif
Sara Stern - Secretary
Senior Advisor, Conlon Public Strategies
Marc Bitler - Treasurer
Manager of Individual Giving, CYSO
Courtney Glasper - Finance
Senior Pricing Manger, Ultradent Products Inc.