Kansas City Youth Percussion Ensemble, KC Studios

Introduction: I was brought up in a long tradition of music education in Kansas City where a students music education and personal development are combined. Unlike the Fast Food "drive through" Model approach to Percussion lessons, each lesson is tailored to every different student, and I like to relate how what the student learns in my class relates to algebra, history, philosophy and literature. I also use music to teach students solid communication skills, and creative problem solving. Culminating in a bi-annual solo performance to build resistance to anxiety, and stress, and cultivating a level of comfort-ability while in the public spotlight. More than just learning drums and percussion we truly have a complete education in music and life long mastery skills. I lived the dream life of many musicians, I spent 10 years playing as Principal Timpanist of a professional orchestra, but the greatest joy I had was guiding my students to college, and helping them understand who they are and what they want to be. I've had students receive full scholarships to college, and win major international prizes. I've also help students apply their talents to other areas such as foreign language learning, culinary arts, and mechanical engineering. I love watching my students learn and grow as if they were my own children, and having them feel proud about doing a job at the best possible level.