With over 25 years of experience, I am a passionate educator, conductor, and performer committed to inspiring musicians at all levels. As an Educational Consultant and University Supervisor for music education majors at Cleveland State University, I help shape the next generation of music educators. My work includes conducting clinics and workshops for K-12 music, band, and orchestra programs, guest conducting community and all-county youth ensembles, presenting at state and national music education conferences, and running a private brass studio where I provide personalized trumpet and small brass ensemble instruction. My approach emphasizes aural and oral development, mastering instrumental fundamentals, understanding music theory, cultivating improvisation skills, and exploring classical, jazz, ensemble, and popular music repertoire.

In addition to my work as a consultant, I previously served as an Assistant Professor in the Music Education Department at the Aaron Copland School of Music, Queens College. There, I directed the Wind Ensemble and co-directed the Afro-Cuban Latin Jazz Ensemble, blending my passion for diverse musical traditions with my commitment to mentoring young musicians. I taught courses such as Introduction to Music Education, Conducting I and II, Woodwind and Brass Methods, and graduate-level classes in Teaching Instrumental Music and Jazz Pedagogy. I also served as an advisor to undergraduate music education majors and coordinated fieldwork and student teaching placements. My leadership extended to contributing to various committees focused on promoting cultural awareness, inclusion, and excellence in education.

Prior to my time at Queens College, I spent 18 years in the New York public school system teaching general music, music technology, choir, and instrumental ensembles, including concert, jazz, and marching bands. I founded “Jazz Elite,” a respected auditioned program for middle and high school students, and co-directed the Latin Jazz Ensemble at the Music Conservatory of Westchester. These roles further deepened my commitment to providing transformative musical opportunities for students from all backgrounds.

As a guest conductor and performer, I have had the privilege of leading and playing trumpet, flugelhorn, trombone, and drums in diverse musical settings, including wind ensembles, big band jazz, R&B, and orchestras. My teaching and conducting philosophy is rooted in creating dynamic and meaningful musical experiences for students at every level.

Highlights of my performing career include conducting memorable concerts with the Jazz Elite program at Purchase College and the Theodore D. Young Community Center in Westchester County, NY, directing the Aaron Copland School of Music Wind Ensemble in a performance of Omar Thomas’ Come Sunday, and contributing to one Emmy-winning PBS documentary and another Emmy-nominated production, where I played trumpet, flugelhorn, and trombone. I have also performed with the Kennedy Center’s Mary Lou Williams Resurgence Big Band, at the Santa Fe New Mexico Festival, and recorded on the Crossroads album with the Western Illinois Jazz Orchestra. Additionally, I toured with the renowned World-Famed Grambling State University Tiger Marching Band across the U.S. and performed in Tokyo, Japan.

These diverse experiences have not only enriched my musical journey but also deepened my passion for bringing music to life through collaboration and artistry. My growth has been further shaped by mentorship from luminaries in their fields, as well as individuals who are luminaries to me, including Professor Ron Carter, Professor Cecil Bridgewater, Professor John Clayton, Dr. David Baker, Dr. Patrice Madura Ward-Steinman, Dr. Peter Miksza, Professor Dale Hopper, Mr. John P. Weber, Mr. Sherman, Ms. Doris Mathews, my inspiring fifth-grade teacher, and Ms. Helen Harris (McClelland), my first piano teacher. Ms. Harris not only introduced me to piano but also created early performance opportunities, arranging gigs for a small trio I was part of, where I played both piano and trumpet alongside my talented friends Larry Jones (keyboard and vocals) and Ysraelia Garbutt (keyboard and clarinet), performing at various venues. Each of these mentors has played a pivotal role in shaping my artistic vision.

As both an educator and a performer, I believe in the transformative power of music to connect, inspire, and elevate lives. Whether on the podium, in the classroom, or performing on stage, my mission is to create inclusive spaces where musicians and educators can explore their artistry, build confidence, and reach their fullest potential. Guided by a deep love for music and a commitment to excellence, I strive to empower the next generation of educators and creators to thrive in this ever-evolving world.