I began playing guitar at the age of
fourteen after hearing Led Zeppelin's
Heartbreaker / Livin', Lovin' Maid on a local
radio station.
After that my $60 three-quarter size guitar
went everywhere I did. My
early stages of training were with my
uncle. He had studied with the likes of Carl Filipiack.
From the beginning, he taught me music
theory and ear training along with chords
and songs.
By the time I was sixteen I was
able to hear a song on the radio, pick out
the chords, and be playing it for my friends
within a matter of minutes. He also taught
me the technique of the guitar: how to
properly hold a pick (and how to pick!),
warm-ups and finger exercises that would
allow me to stretch and hold notes/chords
for long periods of time without loosing
strength. My formative with him were
invaluable because it put me so far ahead of
other kids who were just hacking away on
chords that their friends showed them.
I began my classical training at the age of
twenty when I entered Towson University. It
was here that I realized how "bad" of a
guitarist I really was! Through my private
lessons with Peabody graduate Michael
Decker, he showed the techniques that not
only allowed me to play the high art of
classical guitar, but also improved my rock
technique. Under his
tutelage, I worked on etudes (studies) by
famous guitar composers that worked on every
aspect of guitar playing. My recital in fall
2002 was a success thanks to his teaching.
After graduation, I began teaching guitar
privately, both classical and popular
styles. My students have ranged from ages
seven to forty seven. I have also been
expanding my repertory and playing at area
restaurants, weddings, parties and other
functions. I also did some studio recording
with the Christian progressive-rock group
Orphan Project. In summer 2004 I joined
Refuge, a classic rock cover band that
opened up for Lynard Skynard at the Southern
Woodstock festival.
In spring 2005, I returned to
Towson University for my Masters in Music. I returned
specifically to study with Troy King, an
internationally acclaimed guitarist whose
style and interpretations are not only
unique but fiery and delightful. Under his
wing I have progressed exponentially in the
areas of technique, sound quality, musical
expression and repertory expansion. Mr.
King's teaching method-the technical books
he uses and the high standards he holds for
all his students-has not only pushed me
beyond what I thought I could achieve, but
has also given me the confidence necessary
to pursue a professional career in classical
guitar performance. Not only has it been
challenging to me, but it has been a whole
lot of fun! I look forward to the next three
years of apprenticeship.
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