I believe everyone can make music — compose, improvise, interpret — and attain a level of competency that enables them to connect with themselves and others. While I value virtuosity, I recognize that there is plenty of satisfying music-making to be made on the journey there, and it’s okay if we never make it to virtuosity.

This is how I make this belief come true:
• I help you become an independent learner: I help you understand how to evaluate yourself. I can describe what you should listen for, what it should look like, and how it should feel, so that you know when you are successful.
• I systematically pinpoint problem areas and solve them with manageable steps.
• I am positive, patient, and fun. I am just picky enough so that you improve, but not so much that you feel discouraged.
• I am open-minded and like to learn about what moves you musically.

My favorite part about teaching is when students get excited about what they are able to accomplish and when they feel empowered by music.