In 2004, for my senior project in high school, I learned to play the 5-string banjo. I learned 3-finger Scruggs style. But since I had been a drummer for 7 years, I explored older styles of banjo where they viewed banjo as primarily a rhythm instrument.

In 2005, I started to take seriously the study of music theory, jazz and the piano. I studied intensively with Reagen Kee for a year and a half.

I have also come from a very musical family. Everyone in my family plays an instrument. My dad buys, sells and fixes musical instruments for fun. The house I grew up in looks like a musical repair shop with all kinds of instruments everywhere. My uncle is also a professional guitar player. So somewhere in between drums, banjo and piano - guitar has become my primary instrument for writing and performing.

It is my plan as a teacher to help my students get a foundation in music (the basics of rhythm, melody, harmony, technique, styles and songs) while also keeping their interest alive by teaching them the things they are interested in. This keeps lessons fun and productive. Over time, students will not only come to know the things they are interested in, but will also have a good understanding of the basics of music.

Whether they want to create their own music, or play music other people have written - because of their good foundation, they will be confident in whatever goal they are working towards. Confidence comes through as one of the intangible qualities of music - that is what I believe is the single most important ingredient in good music. It is my goal to facilitate this kind of learning in my students.