1. Where were you born? Tell us a little about your youth and upbringing.
I was Born in St. Petersburg, FL. I was involved in sports growing up until I joined the band in high school.
2. Earliest musical memories?
Growing up, I would go to a lot of concerts with my parents. I saw Garth Brooks before he was popular, sat next to Sawyer Brown at a Steak and Shake and shook hands with the Monkees.
3. Your education? Where did you attend college, primary teachers?
I graduated from Northside Christian High School and from there I went to Harid Conservatory where I studied with Arthur Brooks, Robert Routch and Greg Miller. I briefly attended Manhattan School of Music before getting a job with Portland Symphony. From there, I came to the University of Miami where I finished my studies with Andy Le Winter and Gerry Peel.
4. Why did you choose your instrument?
My mother convinced me that the horn had one of the most beautiful sounds of all the instruments. And....moms always know best.
5. When did you know you wanted to be a professional musician?
When I was a senior in high school performing with the band was all I wanted to do. I knew that I would either be a music teacher or a performer.
6. Who were/are your most important musical influences?
Arthur Brooks, my first teacher in college, who showed me what the horn was capable of. My colleagues, who are great players, great friends and are constantly pushing me to be my best.
7. Most inspiring composers?
J.S. Bach and Johannes Brahms.
8. What would you be if not a musician?
Either a pre-school teacher or music teacher.
9. Your favorite thing about playing in the ACO?
I love chamber orchestras. I enjoy the intimate setting that you do not get when playing in a large orchestra as well as the repertoire for the chamber orchestra.
10. With what other ensembles for you perform/where do you teach?
I play with the Palm Beach Opera, Palm Beach Symphony and freelance with other orchestras around the state. I have several students that I teach in my home.
11. What is in your CD player right now?
James Taylor, Ricky Skaggs, Respighi's Ancient Airs and Dances, Bach-Goldberg Variations and 101 Children's Songs (for my daugher!)
12. What do you like to do outside of work/hobby/pastimes?
I enjoy scrapbooking and craft projects. I also intend to return to competing in Triathlons.
13. Anything else particularly interesting or enlightening you would like to share?
I enjoy spending time with my husband Adam and my 4-year old daughter Caitlin.
