I received a Bachelor of Music Degree from Baylor University. I also attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, pursuing a Master of Music Degree. I have performed in many venues and held many positions throughout our state. I am married and have 5 grown children. I have been teaching for more than 30 years and have had many former students go on to prominent colleges and universities to major in music. Many have received generous scholarships. Several are singing professionally. At last count, I have more than 20 former students who are now teaching music and/or singing professionally. My students consistently receive the highest ratings at competitions, festivals, NATS and Texas All-State. Each year, I have students selected to the OAKE National Choir and the Texas All-State Choir. I am a frequent adjudicator for vocal solo competitions. I hold membership in several professional organizations, including Organization of American Kodaly Educators, Music Educators National Conference, Texas Music Educators Association, Music Teachers National Association, National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS), Dallas Music Teachers Association and Texas Music Teachers Association, where I held several state positions, most recently the State Vocal Chairman from 2007-2011 and 2014. I held the position of Independent Teacher Liaison in Texoma NATS from 2012-2014. I was elected the President of the Dallas Music Teachers Association, to serve from 2014-16 and reelected for a second term from 2016-18.
TEACHING STYLE
Most of my students sing/play competitively. I teach mainly classical repertoire. Of course, I have students who sing in various Jazz and or Pop competitive ensembles, in their churches, community/school theatre, etc. and I help them with their music for these auditions/events. I feel my responsibility is to prepare my students to compete at a high level and facilitate their college selection/auditions, if they desire to continue their musical studies at that level. Being a member of several professional music organizations affords my students competitive opportunities they would not otherwise have. I do have students who do not wish to compete, but simply sharpen their skills and self confidence in performing.
Professional Affiliations
Music Teacher's Helper