I'm a native Western New Yorker who has been teaching private music lessons for over 20 years. I'm a graduate of Houghton University, where I received a Bachelor's of Music in Music Education. Piano was my major instrument, but I'm also an accomplished percussionist. While living in Virginia, I was a percussionist with the Chesapeake Bay Wind Ensemble. I am currently a percussionist with the Southern Tier Symphony and Orchard Park Symphony Orchestra. I am the worship leader at my church and play either keyboard or drum set regularly. I also play in many local high school pit orchestras throughout the year. During the summer, I accompany the fiddle group my daughter plays in.

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I am passionate about teaching music, especially to younger students. I hope that each student will leave my studio with the ability to play for pleasure throughout their lifetime. I take seriously the task of finding enjoyable music to work on for each unique student, understanding that there are many different learning styles and personalities and preferences for music styles. I believe that learning is easiest when it's fun, so I incorporate many games as I teach foundational musical ideas.

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I am not an official "Suzuki Teacher", but I have read and learned much about Shinichi Suzuki's method. His words have helped me to put into focus what my main goals are as a private music teacher. I believe that music is a gift from God and anyone who is properly taught can develop musical skill, just as we all learn to speak. The potential of every child is unlimited, if we only give them space to try and fail, and be encouraged to try again.