Who We Are

Jason Barnes

President & CEO

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Jason Barnes is recognized worldwide as the first bionic drummer, turning personal tragedy into a groundbreaking story of resilience and innovation. After losing his arm in 2012, Jason collaborated with engineers at Georgia Tech to develop a custom prosthetic drumming arm that allows him to continue performing at a professional level. His journey has been featured in Rolling Stone, NPR, and The New York Times, inspiring musicians around the globe. As CEO of Limitless Sound Foundation, Jason leads with vision, overseeing adaptive technology development, education programs, and partnerships that break barriers for musicians with disabilities. His unique blend of artistry, advocacy, and technical expertise drives the mission of making music accessible for all.

Matt Bankston

Vice President & COO

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Matt Bankston is a musician, producer, and engineer whose life has been shaped by living with severe hemophilia. His personal experience with disability fuels his deep commitment to inclusivity in music. As COO of Limitless Sound Foundation, Matt ensures smooth operations, manages donor and partner relationships, and leads recording projects in the Foundation’s adaptive studio. Known for his technical expertise and empathetic leadership, Matt builds bridges between artists, industry partners, and the communities served. His dedication ensures the Foundation’s work remains grounded in impact and compassion, while pushing forward innovation in accessible music creation.

Sam Pura

Director

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Sam Pura is a renowned music producer, engineer, and founder of Panda Studios in Fremont, California. With a career spanning collaborations with major artists and an industry reputation for excellence, Sam brings invaluable expertise and perspective to the Limitless Sound Foundation Board of Directors. His longstanding friendship with Jason and Matt has evolved into a formal leadership role, where he supports the organization’s mission to empower musicians with disabilities. Sam’s contributions help guide strategic partnerships, awareness campaigns, and industry collaborations, ensuring that Limitless Sound’s work resonates across the broader music community.

Heather Jepsen

Director

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Heather Jepsen spent her early life developing a love for music.  She began playing piano at age 9 and never looked backed.  Heather played flute in the school band and loved it.  When the opportunity arrived to learn to play the harp, Heather immediately jumped at the offer, starting the instrument at 16.  By 17 Heather was playing with the Mid-Columbia Symphony.

Heather went to the University of Idaho in Moscow, Idaho to obtain her Bachelor of Music degree specializing in harp performance.  Her senior year Heather was awarded the Presser Scholar, the school’s highest honor for musical and scholastic achievement.  Heather was also a selected Young Artist with the Washington Idaho Symphony performing Debussy’s Dances Sacred and Profane with the Orchestra.

Heather played harp professionally in local symphonies for several years after college until her life shifted toward ministry.  In 2006 Heather was ordained as a Presbyterian minister and has been serving churches for the past 20 years.  She still played harp regularly in worship, in concerts with special friends, or with local groups.

In 2018 Heather was diagnosed with Giant Cell Tumor, a rare disease.  After fighting the disease for 6 years, Heather lost her lower left leg due to complications.  Now an amputee, Heather can still use her hands to play the harp, but her repertoire is severally limited without the use of her left foot.  

Heather has spent her life building welcoming spaces for people from all walks of life.  She is passionate about creating and supporting opportunities for people to feel welcomed and loved in everything they do.