Voice Lessons in Durham, NC

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
I think it's important to practice slowly, to practice small sections at a time, and to isolate the hands. It is a good idea to attempt to sightread a piece just to get an idea of where the more technically challenging parts are at. From there, I will sometimes recommend practicing one hand at a time to facilitate difficult passages of music. Then, slowly play the small section with both hands together. Once you can comfortably play a small section of music, move-on to another section of music and work on it the same way. Continue this process until you've stitched the small segments of music together and you can play through the entire piece. If you're ever frustrated with a passage, take a break! You may also want to try working on another passage if you find one section too difficult. Sometimes all you need is a break or a good night of sleep to reap the benefits of your practice session.

Why did you choose your primary instrument?
I was originally a clarinetist in 4th grade, but ended up feeling dissatisfied with the instrument after playing it for three years. While in high school, I purchased a digital piano to learn the music of my favorite bands. Eventually I learned more about my digital piano and found out that there were pre-recorded songs that I could listen to. Beethoven's "Fur Elise" was on the piano, and that sparked my interest in classical music. From there, I began studying "Fur Elise" and then discovered Beethoven's piano sonatas.

What is your dream piece to perform and why?
The dream piece that I wanted to perform was Beethoven's "Waldstein" piano sonata. After years of practice, I eventually performed this piece as the highlight to my junior recital in music school. This piece had a profound impact on me, and it helped develop my technical abilities to perform more challenging repertoire. From there, I studied and performed Beethoven's "Appassionata" sonata, as well as his third piano concerto. I also had the privilege to perform the third piano concerto with the Mansfield University Symphony Orchestra.

When did you decide to become a professional musician? Was it a gradual decision or was there a defining moment for you?
Becoming a professional musician was a gradual decision for me. I originally studied the piano as a hobby and was self-taught. After playing the piano for my high school music theory teacher, she recommended me to a local pianist for lessons. From there, I studied privately, and my motivation and interest in music increased exponentially. I began practicing many hours a day and I was obsessed with Classical music, especially the music of Beethoven. I eventually gave my first piano recital and I performed the first movement to Beethoven's "Pathetique" sonata. After that, I began to pursue music more seriously and auditioned at a music school. I was accepted, and then I began to perform more challenging repertoire and accomplished bigger musical goals. I also began teaching lessons to beginner students, and then I accepted my first music teaching job in North Carolina. Recently, I moved to Wexford and accepted a position in a highly prestigious school district.

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