Cello with Joel P.

Martha Ellen Stilwell School of the Arts

As a collaborative educator, I work closely with the administration to continue building and implementing the collective vision the orchestra program at the Marta Ellen Stilwell School of the arts, a Nationally Certified Magnet School ranked 21st in the state of Georgia (2019), with high-achieving and accomplished students. Responsibilities include preparing students for professional orchestral experience and college readiness beyond high school to participate in the arts, evaluating and assessing student performance via 21st century methodology and technology, professional development, concert planning, college and youth orchestra auditions, All-State participation, Large Group Performance Evaluations, Governor's Honors programs, local and national competitions, incoming student recruitment and auditions, conducting all-student pit orchestras for musicals (2 year rotation), maintaining a $12,000 + annual program operating cost, fundraising, collaborating with parents and community, and creating an environment where all students needs are met as a member of the orchestra.

Adirondack Mezzo Ensemble

Directed and conducted the Adirondack Youth Mezzo mixed strings, winds, and percussion ensemble of the Adirondack Youth Orchestra association, the area's premier youth orchestra ensemble.

The Virtual String Studio

Currently maintaining a private online studio of viola, cello, bass, guitar, and piano students of various ages.

Seton Catholic Central School

Taught middle school and high school band and strings, chorus, 6th and 7th grade general music, guitar, and sound engineering. Worked collaboratively with the administration to build a comprehensive performing arts program for 5th - 12th grade consisting of instrumental, general, and non-performing opportunities for students to participate in music. Successful recruitment and retention in the program was an integral and passionate focus of mine. Worked with students, parents, faculty and administration in implementing successful strategies to keep kids engaged in music. Initiated and chartered the first Tri-M National Music Honor Society chapter in the Northern New York area. Successfully produced and directed three middle/high school musicals in our growing program with the last one including two sold out shows and netting profits beyond what was expected.

Bedford Hills Elementary School

Taught general elementary music for K-5, 3rd grade strings program, 4th/5th grade orchestra, and chorus. Responsibilities included collaboration with classroom teachers for enrichment programs through music, as well as advocating for musical integration in the school curriculum. Helped bring the Taconic Opera to the school as well as other school-based enrichment programs. Prepared both a 1st and 4th grade musical, moving-up ceremonies, and other school functions like the holiday sing-along. Prepared string students for NYSSMA solo festivals. Worked closely with other music and non-music faculty to collaborate on various issues that affect student growth with the main focus being on enriching classroom instruction through music.

Crane School of Music, SUNY Potsdam

Georgia Professional Standards Commission

Shuler Awards

The American String Teachers Association, founded more than 60 years ago, is a membership organization for string and orchestra teachers and players, helping them to develop and refine their careers. ASTA's members range from budding student teachers to artist-status performers. The organization provides a vast array of services, including instrument insurance, an award-winning scholarly journal, discounts on publications and resources, annual professional development opportunities, and access to collegial network of colleagues throughout the string profession.

National Association for Music Education (NAfME), among the world’s largest arts education organizations, is the only association that addresses all aspects of music education. NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and offers a variety of opportunities for students and teachers. The Association orchestrates success for millions of students nationwide and has supported music educators at all teaching levels for more than a century. Since 1907, NAfME has worked to ensure that every student has access to a well-balanced, comprehensive, and high-quality program of music instruction taught by qualified teachers.

Native Proficiency