Of Palestinian heritage, Mercedes, Lina's grandmother on her mother's side, sits outside with a Bible in her lap. Even at age 80-something, she still read with no glasses! Mercedes' heart and soul captured so many that came across her. Her sweet nature yet extremely powerful presence is undeniable. Her faith in God always came first. Mercedes became widowed, while pregnant with Lina's mother. She never remarried, as to remain forever faithful to her husband who died tragically. Despite hardships and criticisms, she managed to care for her 6 children on her own, working hard and sacrificing everything. Lina only met her grandmother once, in the Holy Land, but teta (grandmother) always left such a profound impact on Lina's life.

Of Lebanese heritage, and Maronite faith, this is Chukralla (shook-ra-la), Lina's grandfather on her father's side. The name Chukralla means "Thanks be to God" in Arabic. Lina's grandfather was a man of strong faith, intellect and widsom. He raised 6 children, and was offered a position in Boston, which he turned down to remain with his family and stay home. Chukralla became a priest in Lebanon, in the Maronite faith, where priests can marry. Though, Lina never had a chance to meet her "jedo" (grandfather), she shares a strong bond to his faith and spirituality.

This is Lina's mom and dad. The early courting days must have been so exciting. One can not help but wish to have been a fly on the wall to capture the moments that made the future. The future Mr. & Mrs Hayek must have enjoyed dinners, dancing, cinema's and good ole conversations that brought them closer to each other, and in their journey to be united forever.

More than 40 years later, and still together...these two inspiring, wonderful, amazing, silly, creative, loving, caring, soul mate couple, is the quintessential earthly parental set Lina was so lucky to receive. Each has influenced and shaped Lina into the complete being she is today. Father offers the more quiet, historic and intellectual perspective. Mother offers the more outspoken, disciplined and creative output. Together, this duo is unstoppable. They are Lina's role models, whom she admires, and is so eternally grateful.

Music is more than a passion for Lina, it's who she is. As the youngest of 4 children and sweet baby sister of 3 brothers, who are also musically gifted...

Lina picked up the accordion at age 7...

She wasn't satisfied with playing a single instrument, and started fiddling with a violin at age 9...

only to find at age 15, her soul and fingers felt the deepest of connections with the guitar.

Of strong Christian faith, and Lebanese/Palestinian heritage, Lina’s family migrated from Kuwait to America over 20 years ago. Like all loving parents, Lina’s mother and father relocated their family in pursuit of a different future for their children, despite leaving behind greater financial stability and cultural familiarity.

As a professional musician, performer and educator, Lina currently continues to follow her love of music, drama, and community outreach, through music and theatrical performances, as well as, workshops.

Her contagious and fun-loving personality comes through in her professional and personal life. Inspired by God, the ones she loves, and the world around her, Lina feels she is at her best when she reaches out her hand and blesses others through the gifts she's been given. Her motto is, "live life simply by inspiring, healing and loving others."