I grew up in the Pittsburgh area and began private lessons with Anthony Pasquarelli of Carnegie-Mellon University. Tony "The Boss" Pasquarelli instilled a hard-working philosophy and a competitive edge in my playing. 

Accomplishments:

• Winner of the Carnegie-Mellon Solo Awards competition for 2 consecutive years (1983, 1984 - in 2 age-categories)

• Attended PMEA District I honors bands all 4 years in high school, seating 3rd chair and above each year

• Attended CMU Honors band 1983, first chair

• Performed the Mendelsohn Concerto 1984 and Napoli 1985, under the direction of Warren Mercer, producing recordings which are still heard to this day at North Hills High School

• Attended District, Region, and Pennsylvania State Bands 1984, 1985 - the only years I was offered to compete for placement

• Accepted to Carnegie Mellon University for trumpet music performance

• Participated in Edinboro Univrsity's Brass Choir and Jazz Ensemble - first chairs (1985-1988)

  • Member of Phi Mu Alpha - Edinboro, University Chapter

• Participated in Case Western University's Concert Band (under the direction of Dr. Gary Ciepluch) and Jazz Ensemble (under the direction of Paul Ferguson), first chairs (1988-1990)

• Performed piccolo trumpet in many wedding ceremonies in the Pittsburgh, Erie, and surrounding areas throughout the years (1984-current)