Orchestra Director & String Educator
About Me
Leadership in the Orchestra Program
As Orchestra Director at Dripping Springs High School, Dripping Springs Middle School, and Sycamore Springs Middle School, my primary passion is building strong, unified orchestra programs where students grow as musicians and as people. Every day in rehearsal, I focus on cultivating artistry, discipline, leadership, and a genuine love for music-making within a collaborative ensemble setting.
In addition to directing, I maintain a small, private studio in the North Central San Antonio / Stone Oak area, working with dedicated violin and viola students who want to deepen their individual skills in support of their ensemble playing.
My career has allowed me to work with students at every level. I have served on faculty at the Eastman Community Music School, conducted the ECMS New Horizons String Orchestra, worked as a teaching assistant at Florida State University, and taught as a Teaching Artist with the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory. Across these roles, I have prepared students for All-State auditions, youth orchestra placements, college auditions, competitions, chamber music performances, UIL Solo and Ensemble/Concert and Sight Reading, and professional-level auditions.
As a performer, I have played with ensembles including the San Diego Symphony, Palm Beach Opera, Pacific Symphony, Jacksonville Symphony, and The Florida Orchestra, among others. My experience performing directly informs how I rehearse and teach, bringing professional standards, refined listening, and artistic depth into every classroom and private lesson.
As a director, my role extends far beyond the podium. I work to create:
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A culture of accountability and mutual respect
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Clear musical expectations and structured rehearsal techniques
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Leadership development within each section
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A strong technical foundation that supports advanced repertoire
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Meaningful performance experiences that inspire pride and growth
Students in my ensembles are challenged to think critically, listen deeply, and take ownership of their role within the group. I believe that ensemble playing teaches discipline, teamwork, and perseverance in a way few other activities can.
Many of my students have gone on to earn leadership roles in youth orchestras, succeed auditions, win competitions, and receive music scholarships. Just as importantly, they leave the program with confidence, work ethic, and a lifelong appreciation for music.
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that learning an instrument builds essential life skills beyond music. In my Orchestras and lessons, students make rapid progress that strengthens confidence, concentration, determination, and persistence. Because music offers immediate, tangible feedback, students can hear and see their growth in real time—an experience that motivates them and often supports success in academics and other areas of life. Learning music is both joyful and challenging, and through this balance, students develop skills that last far beyond lessons.
My philosophy is simple:
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I meet students where they are and help them reach their goals, whether that is learning music for personal enjoyment or achieving short- and long-term ambitions.
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Through the study of the standard repertoire, with an emphasis on technique, tone, and musicianship, students make rapid progress and gain confidence on their instrument.
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My hope is that each student enjoys the process of mastering their instrument, and finds joy in making music that reflects their own dedication and passion.