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BM, Baldwin-Wallace University Conservatory of Music
MM, Youngstown State University Dana School of Music
2000- Full Scholarship to Hnery Mancini Institute, LA
2003- Ohio Light Opera Principal Cellist
I am a professional cellist and instructor who loves working with students of all ages and sharing my passion of music living in Indianapolis with my wife. I have had the pleasure of performing in several different countries and thoroughly enjoy teaching music. I graduated from Baldwin-Wallace University Conservatory of Music. I then received a full assistantship to Youngstown State University to complete my Masters degree in cello performance.
I try to enable all of my students to gain a better more meanigful appreciation for music. I enjoy teaching and try to incorporate technique while learning music. Regular practice is a good habit to learn early on and I ask all students to bring a notebook to lessons so progress can be recorded. Regular attendance is important to continue to learn their new skill and I think learning a new discipline needs to be enjoyed. I do not use a specific technique but do try to move through the Suzuki Book series.
I start every student with basic terminology for the instrument. I work on bow technique and instrument technique very early on, I believe every student wants to play as soon as possible. Music should be fun and as such, if a student is not enjoying lessons anymore I do not push and leave the option to end up to the student and parents. I am trying to turn students on to music, but not create professional musicians in every student. I use Suzuki method books from the beginning to introduce notes and music and eventually move away from the books to solo music. My goal in lessons is to develop students who will grow to appreciate music in their lives.
Allowing me to teach students music and allow those students to grow in their art is a great feeling. I enjoy working one on one, but need students to pay attention in lessons and practice as needed to advance and move forward. I will always work with students on an individualized learning plan but when learning any new skill, it is important to "do your homework". Positive reinforcement is important as well as incentives to reward a student's progress.