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Master Degree: Peabody Conservatory, Bachelor Degree: University of Chicago
2014 - 2nd Place University of Chicago Biennial Concerto Competition
2014 - David L. Fulton Prize for Orchestral Excellence
2011 - Featured Performer, NPR’s “From the Top”, Show #230, Monterey California
2010-2012 Youth Fellow, National Symphony Orchestra
I am a passionate bassist with over 15 years of experience. An accomplished soloist, I have been featured on NPR’s From the Top and have played with the National Symphony Orchestra as an orchestral bassist. I studied at the Peabody Conservatory and the University of Chicago, and my primary teachers have included Ira Gold of the National Symphony Orchestra and Peabody Conservatory; Andrew Raciti of the Milwaukee Symphony and Northwestern University; George Vance developer of the Progressive Repertoire; and virtuoso Francois Rabbath.
I began teaching in college 6 years ago and have helped students successfully prepare for and win ensemble auditions at the college level. For the double bass, perhaps the most athletic instrument, I know it is imperative to focus on proper posture and technique to avoid injury. This bodily awareness (rooted in years of yoga practice) is a central part of my teaching philosophy. As a composer, I encourage my students to pursue their passions by creating works for the bass that draws on what we have been learning in the studio and practicing at home.
For beginning students of any age, I generally start with George Vance's first book of the Progressive Repertoire method. Students will work through this at a pace complementing their personal needs and abilities. If students are more advanced, they will start on the second or third book of the Vance series. In addition to exercises, these books contain many pieces that can be performed in recitals. As students progress, I will add in Francois Rabbath's Nouvelle Technique books for more studies and pieces. In addition, depending on student interest, we can work on orchestral excerpts for auditions and ensemble performances.
Music is a vital part of how we process emotions as individuals and communities. I believe in meeting students where they are no matter their age or skill set to increase their ability to express themselves through music. I aim to provide a well-rounded approach taking into account musicianship skills (listening, reading, singing, and improvising) as well as technical bass skills (left and right hand technique and posture). I also hope to work with students' passions to make their personalized goals have the most significance.