My love and passion for music began many years ago when I was a student attending Southfield Public Schools. I can recall how much participating in band and orchestra programs changed my life. It was a priceless and unique opportunity that was put before me. I made lifelong friends, traveled to a variety of places and performed in venues that I never would've dreamed of; all while acquiring the tools and skills necessary to successfully navigate life. It was also at this point in my school career that I decided I wanted to pass this gift and opportunity along to the next generation. To reach this goal, I attended Tennessee State University and Aquinas College; obtaining a Bachelor of Music Education. In the process, I had the pleasure of studying under such noted music educators as Edward L. Graves, Dr. Paul Brewer and Max Colley Jr. 

2011 - 2014

In addition to my educational experience, I was able to garner real world experience as well. My first professional experience was at Churchill High School's annual summer band camp where I served as a Drill Instructor, Saxophone Sectional Instructor and Choreographer for two consecutive seasons.  Shortly thereafter,  I began teaching at Detroit Premier Academy. It was there that I taught K-4 General Music, 5th-8th Grade Band and 5th-8th Grade Orchestra. During my tenure, we maintained a strong relationship with Michigan School for the Arts. Through that relationship, I was able to work at the Michigan Charter Schools Fine Arts Camp for two consecutive summer seasons. I served as a String  Instructor, Woodwind Instructor  and Counselor. 

2014 - Present

I expanded my experience exponentially when I continued my educational journey at University Prep Academy Middle School. Since my time there, I have taught Beginning and Advanced String Orchestra. Upon my arrival, my immediate goal was to expand the program's presence in the community and beyond. We created multiple performance opportunities, such as Detroit's annual Noel Night, multiple recruitment performances at local elementary schools, and a partnership with the Dearborn Youth Symphony. Students also performed before a panel of judges at the Trills & Thrills Music Festival in Sandusky, OH.  I also partnered with DonorsChoose and the Michael Jordan Foundation to secure a number of percussion and wind instruments in order to expand our instrumental music program. Beyond my teaching experience,  I also had the privilege of working with the amazing scholars of the National Junior Honor Society. It's been a joy seeing our NJHS scholars enrich their school and local communities through community service and various school initiatives; such as Peer Tutoring, and instituting UPA's first ever Paper Retriever program.