MY STORY
I remember what it was like to be a student. To start violin for the first time.. all the excitement and the challenges. At age four I began the Suzuki way, and by six knew I wanted to perform and teach music. As infrequent as such dreams come true, by age ten I delved headfirst into an extended mentorship, & started my teacher training not long after.
I have enjoyed many successes in my musical career. Performing, I have toured Europe, soloed with symphonies, performed a variety of genres with groups such as the Temptations and West My Friend; played in countless weddings and events such as with Lynda Raino Dance company, organized solo recitals and so much more.
For the past 20+ years I have had a full teaching studio of award winning, happy students across the coast of the USA and Canada, the UAE and now Germany, and the privilege of many training opportunities with some of the world's best Suzuki and non-Suzuki pedagogues. In Canada, I instructed violin & viola at the Victoria Conservatory of Music for eight years and was the Suzuki department coordinator for six. I created my own school in Victoria, a Suzuki program in a private school in Oregon, and have built many of my own teaching studios.
I continually create opportunities for my students to join classes & extra curricular activities (if they desire) to offer them a well rounded musical education. My students continually audition and win positions in the VCM's esteemed gifted young musician "Collegium" program, participate yearly in Victoria's Performing Arts Festival, and many other events and competitions.
I believe strongly in the importance of continual education and growth; frequently traveling across Canada and the United States to study with more educators, authors, and those who studied with Dr. Suzuki himself. I have been lucky enough to receive inspiration by some of the Suzuki world's best instructors such as: Edward Kreitman, Elayne Ras, Edmund Sprunger, Clarisse Atcherson, Carey-Beth Hockett, Joseph Kaminsky, to name a few.
Combining years of dedication and education in the Suzuki Method and experience in dance, singing, theater, and hypnotherapy, I endeavour to uplift a child from their current understanding of music to their full potential by giving them the tools at any age of a highly skilled violinist, and to develop and promote life skills, happiness, and self confidence through musical study and appreciation.