From 2002-2012, before I was a software developer/engineer, I was a professional musician. My main instruments are piano and voice. I've played the piano since 1987, and I started singing in 1994. More recently, I took up ukulele and upright bass (both since 2007).
I hold a Bachelors of Music degree in Music Theory/Composistion with a Jazz Emphasis from Lawrence University (2002), and a Masters of Arts degree from the University of Oregon (2007). At Lawrence University, I was part of the Downbeat award winning Lawrence University Jazz Singers. At the U of O, I wrote my masters thesis about Green Piece, a work by Maria Schneider, and I served as a Graduate Teaching Fellow for three years.
During the years I was actively teaching full-time, I was also gigging extensively in the Eugene, Oregon area. I spent a year teaching music in public schools, and several years directing the choir at the Center for Spiritual Living, also in Eugene. I was an active member in many bands over these years, and continue to play currently.
Playing, teaching, and studying music has been an important part of my life for as long as I can remember, and I think it most definitely always will be. My musical skills, and what I have gleaned from studying and teaching music at the graduate level has certainly made me a more critical thinker, a better problem solver, and a person who will always intentionally strive for clear communication.