French Horn with Payton C.

I am a freelance horn player and I have been the horn for 15 years. However, I have been involved in music for my entire life. I earned my Bachelor's degree from East Carolina University and I just recently received my Master's degree from Depaul University where I studied with Jim Smelser, second horn of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. While I was still in North Carolina, I was on the substitute horn list for the North Carolina Symphony as well as assistant/utility horn in the Chamber Orchestra of the Triangle. I performed in various other freelance groups in the Raleigh area and played regularly as second horn in the NC Ballet Academy's production of "The Nutcracker." While in School I was a finalist in multiple solo and concerto competitions, including the NC Symphony's young artist competition. Since moving to Chicago and studying with Jim Smelser, I have had the opportunity to perform with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra which was an absolute dream come true. Besides performing, I have been teaching for 6 years at various skill levels. I enjoy teaching and working with students to figure out the best ways for them to learn new skills. I have my own tricks that I like to use to fix technical issues, but I like to think of lessons as a more collaborative process. I am dedicated to my students and will do everything I can to help fix any problems, whether it be technical, musical, or even personal, I want to help. Music is such a passion for me and few things make me happier than playing my horn. More than anything, I want to be able to share this passion with anyone who is interested in learning!