I began learning violin at age 8 in my hometown, Arcata, California. I have an eclectic mix of training, beginning with the Suzuki Method. At age 10, I joined the small string orchestra at my K-8 school, as well as the Youth Orchestra at Humboldt State University. I participated in the Humboldt State Youth Symphony, Jazz String Quartet, Arcata High Orchestra and additional quartets and chior groups throughout high school. Competitions led the AHS orchestra up and down the west coast and to New York City.
During college, I played with the Greater Grand Forks Symphony (Grand Forks, ND) before moving to Sacramento, California, where I began teaching violin. I continued teaching violin after moving to Ashland, Oregon, where I attended Southern Oregon University, studying music and participating in the
Rogue Valley Symphony. During my time in Sacramento, I began to delve into the world of improvisation, playing with singers/songwriters. I continued to connect with other local musicians while in Ashland and Eugene and have played with several bands. I am currently in a jam-rock band in Eugene where I play electric violin and sing.
Philosophy of Teaching:
I believe that music is a positive and constructive outlet that students have an individual passion for. I think it’s important for students to read music and I try to encompass the whole of music and the instrument. I know that growing as a musician involves progression and plateaus, but believe it is important to continually be challenged and inspired.
I teach a variety of styles and techniques including but limited to: classical, fiddle, pop, theory, composing and transcribing.