I have been involved in music since I was very young. I grew up listening to the sounds of my father's piano playing as he practiced for gigs with his band. He also played the clarinet in a community band. My grandfather was also very musical. He primarily played the violin, but also played tenor sax, clarinet, guitar, and piano. My mom and dad also both sang in the Tuscarawas Philharmonic Chorus for Handel's Messiah.
When I was young, my brother and I sang in the children's choir at church, and I began taking piano lessons at the age of 7. In 5th grade, I began learning to play clarinet in the school band. I played in a steel drum band in middle school and was involved with the handbell choir at my church as well. In high school I learned to play the alto and soprano saxophone and joined an auditioned ladies choir. I was also a drum major for our marching band for one year, and played marimba in the winter drumline for one year.
I attended the University of Dayton from 2004-2008, and received my Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music in December of 2008. My primary instrument in college was piano, though I learned to play guitar, took voice lessons, played marimba in percussion ensemble, and kept up with my saxophone and clarinet as well by playing in pit orchestras, Wind Ensembles, and jazz bands. I gave clarinet lessons for one year, accompanied solos and ensembles on the piano, and have assisted my friends with their piano studies.
In January 2019, I took a position as the part time Director of Music at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Dayton, Ohio. I play for two regular Sunday liturgies, as well as weddings and funerals. I am also a sub at St Luke in Beavercreek. I have a 10 year old son, 8 year old daughter, 6 year old son, and 3 year old daughter whom I take care of at home during the day. I enjoy teaching piano because it gives me an opportunity to share my love of music with others, and hopefully inspire them to love music the same. I look forward to meeting you and your family during our first lesson!