My teaching philosophy plays a central role in my studio. First and foremost, I believe that music plays a fundamental role in humanity. In every society, music expresses the inexpressible, allowing us to express our feelings and make sense of our lives. It is through music that we can undersand things with our heart in addition to our mind. Music roots us in our culture, allowing us to preserve our own heritage and connects us to the people and times of the past. I love to share my joy of music with others and to guide each student in their journey of becoming a musical person. In my studio my goal is to create a comfortable environment with the skills and goals of each student in mind. I truly believe that learning to make music is an important skill that can be enjoyed throughout a lifetime and enriches our selves, our families, and our communities.
I have been studying and playing the piano since the age of 10 and have been formally teaching piano since 2007. Other instruments of formal study include organ, clarinet, and guitar. I received a Bachelor of Music from St. Norbert College, where I studied piano pedagogy and organ performance. I also hold a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I currently serve as Vice President of the Michibago Music Teachers Association and am a member of the National Association for Music Education. I have also served as organist, choir accompanist, and music coordinator at various churches in the Sheboygan and Green Bay areas, and as a judge for local piano festivals.