Experience Summary
I have taught private flute lessons for 10+ years from beginners to advanced and children to adults. I have also helped with marching and concert bands as a woodwind instructor in local schools.
I started taking flute lessons at the age of 12 under the instruction of Betsy Hudson-Traba, principal flutist of the Sarasota Orchestra. With a solid foundation in flute playing, I went on to study with Eva Amsler at the Florida State University where I earned my Bachelor of Music in flute performance. There were a lot of wonderful playing opportunities at FSU and as an undergraduate I was playing in the top orchestra. I was a member of the “world renown” Marching CHIEFS, where I served as section leader to 50+ flutes. One of the more unique ensembles I participated in was the Andean ensemble, Aconcagua, where I played the zampona (panpipes) and the quena (Andean flute). After FSU I decided to go abroad for graduate school where I earned my Master’s at a small conservatory in beautiful Lugano, Switzerland called the Conservatorio della Svizzera-Italiana. At CSI I studied under Italian flutists, Mario Ancillotti, Stefano Parrino, and Giovanni Crola. I have substituted in various orchestras including the Lugano Camera Orchestra, Sarasota Orchestra, Sarasota Ballet Orchestra, and the Southwest Florida Symphony Orchestra.
Teaching Style
I believe that every student learns in their own unique way and at their own pace. I try to cater to that thought when teaching and encourage each student to become his or her own teacher. I think it is important to have a strong fundamental base, but music is more than notes and fingerings. The study of music can give one the power to look at life’s problems through a different lens and give a fresh perspective. Now that I am out of school I see more clearly that there is never an ending point to education. All of those years of studying are not just to pass a test or earn a degree. The purpose is to apply the lessons we learn and create the best life possible. To quote the great Willy Wonka, "we are the music makers, and we are the dreamers of dreams."
My Hobbies
In addition to music, I love spending time with family, friends, and my adorable kitties (Ron & Harry) and dog (Leia). I also enjoy reading, the great outdoors, baking, arts & crafts, travel, organizing, and cleaning!
Other Comments
I am able to assist in many different areas of music including flute, piccolo, world flutes, other woodwinds, performance, audition prep, music theory, music history, music appreciation, and ear training.