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How did you come to Eastern?“After teaching at a liberal arts college for five years in Idaho, I decided it was time to search for a position in the Northeast to be closer to my family living in New York. At that time (2002) there were a lot of ways in which I could contribute to the choral area of Eastern’s fine arts major, see the transformation to the Performing Arts Department, housing Theatre and Music, and now in its current iteration as the Music Department with three discrete concentrations: Performance, Musicology, and Music Industry and Leadership. It is so satisfying to see the evolution of music at Eastern, and how it has led to recruiting highly qualified students to the program.”
“My favorite classes to teach are Concert Chorale and Chamber Singers. As a conductor, these courses are my favorite because I can lead students to a world beyond what they may have previously experienced in high school, or those who come to Eastern as transfer students. At face value, one can get wrapped up in the sounds, texture, timbre, melodies and harmonies.
This is wonderful; however, above and beyond those musical elements, students experience multiple genres of choral music through an historic and global lens. We perform music from as far back as medieval times, as well as music in multiple languages. In addition, music is a vehicle for students to travel and experience cultures other than those they have experienced.”
“I am interested in body awareness through conducting and martial arts, as well as the use of imagery in vocal and conducting pedagogy.”
“My teaching philosophy includes giving students an education they can carry into their future endeavors, and to reinforce that the study of music has so many transferable skills for any career option. It is an educator’s job is to provide students with opportunities that will lead to and empower students to be successful in life.”
We perform music from as far back as medieval times, as well as music in multiple languages. In addition, music is a vehicle for students to travel and experience cultures other than those they have experienced.
“There are many. Among them are traveling to Vienna with the choir, a member of whom had never been outside the borders of Connecticut. Others include bringing students to sing at Carnegie Hall on numerous occasions, and singing with Josh Groban and for the touring show of ‘Game of Thrones.’”
“Work hard! As my mentor once said, “Remember, when you’re not in the practice room someone else is!” Committing to excelling in any discipline, music in this case, will transfer to all aspects of life. Allow yourself to be vulnerable and you will reach heights beyond you think you are capable of.”
I didn’t think I would find music all too interesting, but I ended up enjoying myself. The class was oddly fun for someone who had little music experience. Thank you!Student Quote
