Versatile Trumpet

For beginning students who are children, I have a range of beginner method books that I like to choose from. I pick the one that suits the childs' needs the best, based on how the first few lessons go. We will then progress through the books and introduce supplemental materials, such as solo repertoire and other extras, once the student shows positive progress. I base my methods around the students and their needs to ensure the lessons are engaging and beneficial. I make the promise to find the right book for each and every student, and continually challenge the students to ensure their progress.

I have been playing trumpet since the fifth grade, with three years of piano prior to that. I graduated from Appalachian State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Instrumental Music Education, K-12, with minors in Jazz and Performance. I love music, whether it be playing it or teaching it, and it's what I see myself doing for the rest of my life. I have performed in ensembles of all kinds, ranging from jazz bands to pit orchestras, to quintets to full orchestras. After graduating college, I was the resident trumpet at the Barter Theater in Abingdon, Virginia, before completing three contracts as a show band musician on board Celebrity Cruise ships. I have toured Europe with my university's top jazz ensemble, as well as toured the United States with two different professional drum corps, Carolina Crown and Jersey Surf. I have taught at summer camps and after school programs, and I just love to share my love of music with others.