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Pursuing PhD, State University of New York at Buffalo, Music Composition (Expected 2019) BM, Oberlin Conservatory and College, Music Composition (2014) Certificate in Trombone Performance, Los Angeles County High School for the Arts (2010)
UB Teaching Fellowship Recipient (2014-2018) Oberlin College Grant (2010-2014) Oberlin Conservatory Dean's Scholarship (2010-2014) Henry Mancini Scholarship in Film Composition (2010) LACHSA Music Department Award (2006)
I’m a pianist, composer, and dedicated music educator currently pursuing a PhD in Composition at SUNY Buffalo on a Teaching Fellowship. I received my BM from Oberlin Conservatory in Music Composition. Prior to my undergraduate studies I attended the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts, where I majored in trombone performance and studied both piano and composition privately.
I have performance experience in both classical and jazz music. I've performed at many prestigious festivals and venues, such as Lincoln Center, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Hollywood Bowl, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, Monterey Jazz Festival, Next Generation Jazz Festival, and the Playboy Jazz Festival. I have performed both as a soloist and in large ensembles such as orchestras, jazz bands, brass ensembles, and wind ensembles.
For the past 5 years I have taught 100+ students from a wide range of ages (5-60+). I have taught subjects such as Piano, Composition, Songwriting, Music Theory, Ear Training, Aural Skills, Music History, and Film Music, among others. I have a strong background in all these subjects, and have found that integrating different styles and types of musical knowledge into the lessons helps make your learning engaging and motivating. I am a patient and supportive teacher who tailors his instruction to each student's experience, age, and needs. I enjoy teaching students of all ages and love watching them make progress. Teaching is very fulfilling for me, and am always looking for opportunities to continue doing it!
Every student has their own objectives and learns at their own pace, and I appropriately tailor my curriculums, lesson plans, and learning materials to you and your experience level. My primary goals are to make your learning fun and interesting, holistic, and to strengthen your foundation. In my teaching I integrate a broad array of styles and musical knowledge to create deeper understanding and skill in the primary subject matter. Depending on the subject I may use published music, textbooks, and workbooks as the primary learning materials. I also regularly use many of my own learning materials, which are designed to make your learning easy and simple.
I am a patient and supportive teacher who tailors his instruction to each student's experience, age, and needs. Over the course of our lessons I set realistic goals for the student that enable them to progress steadily, develop confidence, and deepen their interest. Nothing is more rewarding than watching a student grow, and I make it a point to acknowledge their improvement and the merit of their accomplishments. I emphasize steady, efficient practicing methods and encourage students to develop their skills and understanding.