I started piano lessons at the age of 6, fascinated by an old, green piano stranded in our basement.  My first year of lessons was typical for a child my age - I was intrigued with the sounds I was creating, but my parents often had to remind me to practice. 

 

After that first year, though, something magical happened...I liken it to falling in love, because I just wanted to breathe, eat, and play piano all day! From then on, you'd be more likely to hear my parents begging me to STOP playing so much to give everyone a little quiet around the house! (NOTE:  my kids sometimes ask me the same today:)

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Through the years, music and playing piano have been like a loyal best friend, supporting and seeing me through every part of my life.  Since middle and high school, I have accompanied soloists and choirs, played in jazz and marching bands, musicals, and orchestras. I cherished my time in the classroom teaching music to K through 8th graders, and had the privilege to lead a fantastic youth choir - an experience I will always hold dear in my heart.

 

I have served as Interim Music Director for churches, and I often perform solos and accompany during services, concerts, weddings, and funerals. In recent years, I have been excited to learn to play the organ and handbells. Experiences like these -  where I am now the student - have helped me immensely as a teacher.  They allow me to remember the courage it takes to learn something new, and that making mistakes (even in front of others!) is OK, completely expected, and an important part of the learning process.

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I have run my own private piano studio since 1998, and I continue to be amazed by my students, as we share the joy of piano and music. What a privilege to guide and work together as these budding musicians make their own "grace notes" of life!