Prior to moving to Cook County, I lived in the Twin Cities for a year as a substitute band director for multiple school districts. Wanting to return to rural Minnesota, I accepted the position here at Cook County Schools.

It wasn't until about 11th grade in high school that I knew I wanted to be a music teacher. At the time, I was the captain of the drumline and gave lessons to underclassmen. When I experienced seeing success in the students I taught and led a great-sounding drumline, I knew I wanted to do these things as a career. 

As a band director, I am primarily motivated and inspired by standard composers and conductors of the band tradition such as Grainger, Vaughn-Williams, Maslanka, Reed, Bernstein, Sousa, etc. Personally, I am inspired by Jazz and the Romantic Era piano and symphony repertoire. 

Please know that it's never too late to learn an instrument. It's tough at first, but gets easier and more fun as one progresses on their instrument(s). I must stress the importance of regular and consistent practice. 

My father and I are Studebaker enthusiasts and we enjoy working on such vehicles and other automotive projects. I also enjoy woodworking and welding/metalworking.

I reached the rank of Eagle Scout when I was in the Boy Scouts.