My philosophy of music education focuses on a strong belief in the power of education to progress society, the unbreakable bond of music with the human experience, and that as a teacher, I am building a culture that encourages all to be the best version of themselves.
Educator
At the University of Kansas, I currently serve as a Graduate Teaching Assistant. My teaching roles with the University include working with the Marching Jayhawks, guest conducting the concert ensembles, and teaching an undergraduate conducting course.
From 2021 - 2024, I taught at Clay County Community Schools. In Clay Center, I was the head director of the middle school bands, where I taught 6th, 7th, and 8th grade bands. With the middle school, I was in charge of designing curriculum and instruction and focused on fostering musical independence in students through both large ensemble and small ensemble performance. Additionally, I served as the assistant director at the high school level and elementary band level. As an assistant I assisted with all areas of high school band program.
In addition to duties as a band director, I have taught music technology courses offered to students with or without musical experience. Topics in this class included lessons on Digital Audio Workstations (DAW), live sound production/engineering, and more.
Conductor
As of the Fall of 2024, I have begun a Masters of Music in Wind Band Conducting at the University of Kansas, under the tutelage of Dr. Matthew Smith. In addition to private study, I am a guest conductor with the University of Kansas Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and University Band.
Previous experiences as a conductor include my years of service as a band director in Clay Center, KS, serving as the assistant director of the Clay Center Municipal Band, and conducting the Little Apple Horn Choir in Manhattan, KS.
Athletic Band Director
At all levels, I have had the opportunity to work and lead athletic bands. Athletic bands, as the most visual component of the band program, provides ample opportunities for community engagement, student growth, and can be a huge proponent of growing your program.
At the University of Kansas, I work with the Marching Jayhawks, who have reached record numbers of enrollment and are a staple at KU Football games in “The Booth.” With the Marching Jayhawks, I have lead rehearsals, written drill, and arranged music for the 400+ person group. In addition to the marching band, I lead the Women’s Basketball Band, where I handle all administrative duties, run rehearsals, coordinate travel, and lead the band as we support our Division I program.
At Clay Center Community, I helped co-direct the “Tiger HS Band.” With the Tiger Band I helped lead rehearsals, wrote drill, and arranged music for the ~40 person band. The Tiger band received superior and excellent ratings at festival contests.
"Ancora Imparo"
Yet, I am still learning…