Biography
Currently I am a freelance performer and teacher in Oklahoma City. I attended Oklahoma City University, where I performed as principal clarinet in the Wind Philharmonic and Symphony Orchestra as well as previous positions as principal clarinet of the University of Denver Lamont Symphony Orchestra. I have performed extensively from the time that I was 17 until the present, averaging 26 concerts per academic year during my first three years of undergraduate study. Upon completing my bachelor's degree at the University of Denver I averaged 9 major performances during each ten week quarter, consistently playing principal clarinet positions in both university orchestras and wind ensembles. At DU I expanded my recital and chamber repertory significantly, and I specialize in chamber music as a performer. During my undergraduate, I established firmly my love of teaching; as much as I enjoy performing on the clarinet, I love teaching students of all ages.
Over the years I have enjoyed working with elementary school beginners as well as advanced high school students, and even some interested adult beginners. All ages and experience levels are welcome in my studio. I teach with the philosophy that every clarinet player is unique, and every student deserves an individualized approach.
During my studies I have had the opportunity to play in master classes with world renowned soloist Julian Bliss, Mark Nuccio of the New York Philharmonic, and Spanish Clarinetist Jonatan Rives-Beneite. My principal teachers have included Bil Jackson of the Aspen Music Festival/Vanderbilt University, Buffet Clinician Jeremy Reynolds of the University of Denver, and Brad Behn of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. I have taken an interest in studying Mr. Behn's mouthpiece-making techniques, as I continue to teach.
My performance experience has also included work with the Ethos West Chamber Ensemble of Fort Collins Colorado, along with solo recitals given annually in the public and academic setting.
In addition to the clarinet, I enjoy good food, cycling, and racquet ball. I also know a little something about a field related to music called the Alexander Technique. Ask me about it sometime!
If you have any more questions, feel free to read my resume in regards to performance. Teaching is my passion, and I wish to teach a wide variety of students.
Over the years I have enjoyed working with elementary school beginners as well as advanced high school students, and even some interested adult beginners. All ages and experience levels are welcome in my studio. I teach with the philosophy that every clarinet player is unique, and every student deserves an individualized approach.
During my studies I have had the opportunity to play in master classes with world renowned soloist Julian Bliss, Mark Nuccio of the New York Philharmonic, and Spanish Clarinetist Jonatan Rives-Beneite. My principal teachers have included Bil Jackson of the Aspen Music Festival/Vanderbilt University, Buffet Clinician Jeremy Reynolds of the University of Denver, and Brad Behn of the Oklahoma City Philharmonic. I have taken an interest in studying Mr. Behn's mouthpiece-making techniques, as I continue to teach.
My performance experience has also included work with the Ethos West Chamber Ensemble of Fort Collins Colorado, along with solo recitals given annually in the public and academic setting.
In addition to the clarinet, I enjoy good food, cycling, and racquet ball. I also know a little something about a field related to music called the Alexander Technique. Ask me about it sometime!
If you have any more questions, feel free to read my resume in regards to performance. Teaching is my passion, and I wish to teach a wide variety of students.
cv_2013_-_google_drive.pdf | |
File Size: | 77 kb |
File Type: |
FAQ
Q: What makes you so unique compared to other teachers?
A: I have a flexible teaching style that is unique to each student. No two lessons are ever the same. I feature a teaching style that incorporates elements of relaxation and efficiency that maximize a student's enjoyment. Currently I am working on a clarinet method book.
Q: Can you tell me more about this method book project?
A: Absolutely! It is my master's thesis, and it is a work in progress. That doesn't mean that it is something I require my students to own and use as a dogmatic guide. It is more of an ongoing process that accepts contributions from individual lessons and takes into account what I know and continue to discover about teaching. This is a labor of love, not an extra fee I am asking students to pay.
Q: What brand of instruments do you play?
A: I play Buffet Clarinets, but I have performed on Selmer equipment before. I don't think that the clarinet makes any difference in regard to the player.
Q: My son/daughter doesn't read music. Should I still pursue lessons on the clarinet?
A: I say YES, absolutely! Every student is different, but I can teach students how to play the clarinet and read music.
Q: Do you sell mouthpieces?
A: Not yet! Check back in a little while. I can direct you to an excellent mouthpiece maker, and I play on his products exclusively!
Q: How much do you charge for lessons?
A: See this page!
Q: Where can I hear you play?
A: Contact me for my latest concert schedule, or go to my media page.
Q: Do you give Alexander Technique lessons?
A: No, but I incorporate concepts from them into my teaching.
A: I have a flexible teaching style that is unique to each student. No two lessons are ever the same. I feature a teaching style that incorporates elements of relaxation and efficiency that maximize a student's enjoyment. Currently I am working on a clarinet method book.
Q: Can you tell me more about this method book project?
A: Absolutely! It is my master's thesis, and it is a work in progress. That doesn't mean that it is something I require my students to own and use as a dogmatic guide. It is more of an ongoing process that accepts contributions from individual lessons and takes into account what I know and continue to discover about teaching. This is a labor of love, not an extra fee I am asking students to pay.
Q: What brand of instruments do you play?
A: I play Buffet Clarinets, but I have performed on Selmer equipment before. I don't think that the clarinet makes any difference in regard to the player.
Q: My son/daughter doesn't read music. Should I still pursue lessons on the clarinet?
A: I say YES, absolutely! Every student is different, but I can teach students how to play the clarinet and read music.
Q: Do you sell mouthpieces?
A: Not yet! Check back in a little while. I can direct you to an excellent mouthpiece maker, and I play on his products exclusively!
Q: How much do you charge for lessons?
A: See this page!
Q: Where can I hear you play?
A: Contact me for my latest concert schedule, or go to my media page.
Q: Do you give Alexander Technique lessons?
A: No, but I incorporate concepts from them into my teaching.