Sara’s Story

My name is Sara Flatow and I’m a producer living in Los Angeles. I have been in the entertainment industry for 24 years and have spent the last 10+ years creating behind the scenes content for many popular television shows and films. My latest projects include Grey’s Anatomy (2005—present), Scandal (2013—present), and How to Get Away with Murder (2014—present). I am also a proud member of the Producer's Guild of America. Feel free to check out some of my work at www.SaraFlatow.com!

I grew up in Orlando, Florida and I was in band from the seventh grade through college. I have so many fond memories. —from perfecting my clarinet embouchure to marching in front of thousands of screaming football fans. I had the time of my life, made lifelong friends, and I cherished every moment. I knew band was fun and good for me, but I really didn’t understand the impact it had on my life until much later.

In January of 2012, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. This sent me on an unprecedented journey that took everything I had to get through. All the skills I developed in band—including determination, listening, and resilience—proved critical in my fight. After nine surgeries and countless procedures, the power and importance of music education has never been more clear to me. Over and over I hear stories just like mine—people with real-world challenges who derive strength from their music. It pains me to hear that arts programs are being cut. Together, we can do something about this.

“Far too many people think Band Is just about entertaining a crowd during halftime at a football game.”

Our goal with Marching Beyond Halftime is to show what music education can do beyond the typical halftime show. Far too many people (including those making budgetary decisions) think band is simply about entertaining a crowd during halftime at a football game. They don’t know any better. And that’s on us.

With your help, we will complete Marching Beyond Halftime and get the word out about the positive impact of music education!