Piano with Elwood B.

From writing my first song when I was 3, to starting piano at 9, to going to Duquesne University for Music Education, music has always been who I am. It's tough for me to say that I'm an expert because I consider myself a life-long student. I love to learn and gain new experiences. This way of approaching life has given me so many different lessons, methodologies, and ideas. The best teachers I've had were the same way. They could incorporate so many different teaching styles which meant they were reaching every student in a meaningful way. I've conducted ensembles, sang in choirs, recorded and toured an album with a rock band, accompanied many different musicians, taught private lessons, and taught in classroom settings. This buffet of music has given me the ability to teach to any student. Whether a beginner who needs a little more structure, a teenager playing Beethoven, or a busy adult who just wants to play for their enjoyment, I have always been about "student first" teaching. If the student isn't having fun and progressing, then what's the point? They could come to resent music lessons and quit, and then they would not love what I have loved throughout my entire life. Music is a special language, but it is a language nonetheless. I like to teach the "words", "sentences", and "paragraphs" through music that the students know. I've seen that once students unlock certain parts of the language, they are excited to learn more. Building upon previous lessons learned, students can progress faster and with a deeper understanding. It starts to make sense. Beyond the classroom, I think it's important to be a complete musician. That comes from a well-rounded life and realizing that those components outside of music have an impact. I like to stay active with skiing, yoga, hiking, and whatever other outdoor adventure happens along. I also love to cook, do handyman projects around my home, and am a budding filmmaker. When I have lessons with students, I like to share my life with them and it's important for them to feel that they can share with me too. I don't just care about their musical progress; I care about them as a person. Music personifies life. My passion for life comes through in my music and I hope that my students can learn the same.