I believe that each student is quite different and unique in their talents and capabilities, as well as their musical goals. Therefore, I do not follow one strict teaching form or method, but approach each student on an individual basis, structured to fit their particular needs and abilities. Classical music is the foundation of my approach, but I enjoy teaching all styles of music — from classical to popular — believing that using whatever style captures the interest is the best way to learn.
There are three areas of musical development that I highly stress: Musicality, educational background, and performing. Specifically, tone, technique, interpretation, expression, and sight-reading are points I emphasize musically. Educationally, I try to incorporate fundamental theory and music history into each lesson to develop a concept of harmony, style and an educated performer. I encourage all of my students to experience performing through active participation in school bands, youth orchestras, and other local performing groups by having solo recitals, and by playing for weddings and church services; as well as hearing other musicians perform.
My Teaching Studio
Facilities include the following materials for the use and benefit of my students during lessons:
- Piano — Kawai Studio Upright
- Extensive book and sheet music library
- Extensive record and CD collection: classical and opera
- Metronomes and music stands
Over Five Decades of Experience
I am an accomplished and versatile professional flautist, with extensive experience in solo performing. My background includes principle flute positions in numerous orchestras for symphony, ballet, opera and musical theatre productions. I have been featured in performances on radio and television, as well as solo recitals, benefit concert and church services. I have also taught the flute privately since 1967.
Originally from San Diego, I moved to Canada in 1982 and reside in Stratford, Ontario. I pursued musical training at the United States International University’s School of Performing Arts, where I majored in Music Performance on the flute.
Instructors of note include Frederick Baker and Adrian Negrette, as well as masterclasses with flautists Jean Pierre Rampal (San Francisco, 1973) and Jams Galway (Seattle, 1982).
I currently hold the position of principle flute in the Blyth Festival Orchestra. I have also held principal flute positions in the Royal Winnipeg Ballet Touring Orchestra, San Diego Starlight Opera Orchestra, San Diego Chamber Orchestra, the Center for the Performing Arts Chamber Orchestra and the International Opera Studio Orchestra.
I continue to specialize in solo work through my business, Elegant Music. This includes a busy schedule of weddings, receptions, restaurant engagements, and music for special occasions of any kind. I have also been a featured performer for the Stratford Festival Theatre, providing “lobby music” for the Festival prior to performances.
In addition, I proposed, initiated and coordinated a project involving music at the London Regional Cancer Centre. This project was the first of its kind in Canada. The objective was to bring live music into the Cancer Centre during peak chemotherapy clinics, providing relaxing, soothing background music for cancer patients and family members, thereby reducing their stress and anxiety. The project was received with overwhelming success by patients and staff.
Contact Information
Whether your interest or musical goals are in serious study, university audition preparation or playing just for fun — I am happy to accept all ages and levels — beginners to advanced. You can reach me at: (519) 271-3006