This local musician is involved in a slew of local musical groups as a teacher, performer and conductor.

Who are some of your favorite composers?

This is a very difficult question to answer, as there are so many composers in differing genres that inspire me for different reasons. My favorite composer is simply one who is able to evoke some sort of emotion an emotion that surrounds me in a world only I am able to visit and live in for that short time.

What instruments do you play?

My main instrument is the trumpet, which I have been playing for 25 years. Through college and my teaching career, I am proficient on all of the woodwinds/brasswinds and percussion instruments as well.

What drew you to the trumpet?

I was given a musical instrumental selection handout in sixth grade. I looked over the list, closed my eyes, and pointed at random on a musical instrument. My finger happened to land on trumpet and the rest is history.

Where were you born and raised?

I was born and raised in Vancouver, Wash. I lived there for 22 years with my parents, identical twin brother and my oldest brother. I currently reside in beautiful Astoria, where the sea lions bark me to sleep every night.

What is your education background?

I attended Portland State University, where I received my Bachelor of Arts in music. I continued graduate classes at Washington State University in Pullman, Wash., where I also acquired my teaching license. I am currently finishing my masters degree in education with Concordia University.

What local musical groups are you involved with?

I currently work for the Jewell School District, located in the Seaside coast range. I teach general music (kindergarten through fourth grade), beginning band (fifth grade), sixth grade band, middle school band (seventh and eighth grade), and high school band (ninth through 12th grade). I work as a conductor for the local Columbia River Symphony, North Oregon Coast Symphony, and the orchestra for the Little Ballet Theatres annual production of The Nutcracker. I also work as the head woodwind/brasswind/percussion instructor for the Astoria Conservatory of Music. I play trumpet for the North Coast Big Band and, when time permits, for the North Coast Symphonic Band.

What is something you strive to teach your students?

Besides the usual aspects of learning to play music, I strive to teach my students the importance of hard work, self-motivation and community involvement. Being able to set goals and understanding the differing processes that allow my students to reach these goals, in a positive manner, is a continuing achievement that I wish for all my students to be able to experience.

Would you say music is a passion in your life?

Music is a deep passion in my life. My wish is that I am able to instill my love for music to many individuals through my job, life and experiences, and that others will spread their love for music, which in turns creates a harmonious effect throughout our world.

How do you prepare for conducting the orchestra for the Little Ballet Theatres annual production of The Nutcracker?

Driving to and from work to Jewell everyday is almost two hours of driving in which, one month before orchestra rehearsals begin, I listen to various Nutcracker performances, at least once a day. I also conduct at home with the Astoria Nutcracker DVD from previous years.

What are you listening to now?

Currently my electronic devices have waiting for me the following musical selections: Brandenburg Concertos No.2 and No.3; Beethovens Symphony No. 7; Bruckners Symphony No. 3; the How to Save a Life album by The Fray; and a various number of alternative pop and rock selections.