Teaching Artist Statement

There is nothing like the sound of a musical ensemble. The feelings that can be evoked from the melodies and harmonies emanating from a well prepared group of musicians are beyond words. The process of preparing music for performance is so uplifting from the perspectives of the ensemble members and conductor. This is why I feel so fortunate to be the director of the Swing Machine and Sax Ensemble at Music Center of the Northwest.

Teaching Bio

I have been teaching privately, directing and co-directing ensembles in Seattle since 1999. I have worked with various band directors in the Seattle and Edmonds school districts by teaching their students individually or participating in leading clinics. I have adjudicated in Seattle Schools Solo and Ensemble competitions. It has been incredibly rewarding to witness some of my students continue on to become professional musicians and teachers themselves.

Performance Bio

My professional career as a performing musician since the 1980’s has included performing in many diverse musical groups and situations. I’ve played in ensembles for acts such as the Temptations, the Four Tops, Wayne Newton, Bobby Caldwell, Diane Shure, Rosemary Clooney, the Seattle Symphony and many others. What a blessing it has been to play music professionally in touring musicals, on cruise ships, in the greatest concert halls and in some of the most intimate music clubs the world over.

Since 2011, I have directed the Full Circle Jazz Ensemble, which is a local professional mini big band that has played in the Seattle area and produced a wonderful album called The Wheels Are Turning in 2015, featuring fine instrumentalists and vocalists in the greater Seattle region.

Because of all the fun I have had over the years and my never ending hunger to be a better musician, I am very glad to convey the enthusiasm and joy I have for the music to my students and ensemble members.

Let’s play!