Bio

Education

Bachelor of Music (Percussion Performance with Distinction)
Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri, Kansas City

Orchestral Career

After serving as principal percussionist with the Omaha Symphony Orchestra, I performed extensively with San Diego Symphony Orchestra, Opera, Chamber Orchestra and Starlight Opera. I made Vancouver, Canada my home while performing with the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra and Opera.

Educational Career

As an educator, I have been an Artist-in-Residence and presenter of assembly programs in over 300 elementary schools throughout California and British Columbia. I currently teach percussion students with the San Diego Youth Orchestra and local elementary and middle schools.

Current Focus

Throughout my career and wherever I have resided, my greatest passion and mission has been to use my gift in church. I currently participate regularly with the orchestra at Shadow Mountain Community Church as timpanist/multi-percussionist. Presenting solo concerts in retirements and hospitals for the Health Arts Society back in Vancouver sparked a desire to bring music to the older population. I currently offer programs in retirement and nursing homes, playing classical music, 40's tunes and hymn arrangements with the marimba and vibraphone.

Although my musical life has revolved around all percussion, my greatest passion has always been to play the marimba and vibes as a solo instrument. As well as flying across the keys in a piece like Flight of the Bumblebee, I also love playing the marimba in a fashion that is more rare. Rolling four soft mallets evoke a resonant, rich sound in the lower register which is soothing, uplifting and deeply touching.