As an educator, I am committed to fostering creativity, discipline, and lifelong learning in my students. I teach upper strings, digital music, and jazz at Walker West Music Academy, where I have mentored young musicians to award-winning performances, including a first-place jazz combo at the 2017 Eau Claire Jazz Festival. I also teach general music, band, and orchestra in the Minneapolis Public Schools district and have been a clinician at MNSOTA’s Eclectic Strings Day for over five years.

Beyond traditional instruction, I lead a summer jazz violin workshop for improvisers of all ages and skill levels, creating a space where students can explore jazz language, refine their improvisation skills, and develop their unique artistic voice. My work with inner-city youth through the Mobile Jazz Project introduces beat-making and music production as tools for self-expression, bridging contemporary and traditional musical practices.

Through these diverse teaching experiences, I have developed a philosophy rooted in three key principles: systematic instruction, continuous learning, and intellectual rigor. These values shape my approach, ensuring that students not only gain technical proficiency but also develop the creative confidence and critical thinking skills to thrive as musicians and individuals.

Pedagogy Must Be Systematic

I believe in a structured approach that introduces concepts progressively, allowing students to build a deep, functional understanding. Instead of simply following standard methods, I encourage students to think critically, develop their own perspectives, and explore creative solutions—fostering independence and innovation.

Pedagogy Must Be Continuous

Learning extends beyond the classroom, requiring reinforcement and high expectations. My approach nurtures critical thinking and creativity, helping students build mental frameworks that support lifelong learning. Whether guiding a student through jazz improvisation, classical technique, or music production, I emphasize growth through exploration and repetition, ensuring that excellence becomes second nature.

Pedagogy Must Be Rigorous

Rigor is not about difficulty for its own sake but about cultivating discipline, curiosity, and self-motivation. I challenge students to take ownership of their learning, think deeply, and apply their skills across multiple musical contexts—whether improvising on stage, composing digitally, or interpreting classical works. A rigorous environment reinforces understanding and prepares students to thrive as both musicians and creative thinkers.

By integrating these principles into my teaching, I empower students to become confident, expressive, and lifelong learners—equipped to shape their own artistic journeys.