About Me

I grew up in rural mid-coast Maine, surrounded by music from an early age. Whether playing fiddle in the family contra-dance band, performing violin and viola in chamber and orchestral groups through Bay Chamber Concerts, or singing every chance I had, music was always at the center of my life. Eventually, I focused on the viola, studying with Sheila Browne and Karen Ritscher. I went on to earn a Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance from the University of North Carolina School of the Arts and a Master of Music in Viola performance from Boston University’s College of Fine Arts.

In addition to my viola studies, I completed The Kenan Fellowship at Lincoln Center Education in New York City. This experience gave me the chance to work alongside Teaching Artists in New York public schools and culminated in performances at Lincoln Center Education’s Clark Theatre.

My time at Lincoln Center, Suzuki training at the Hartt Suzuki Institute, and the many inspiring educators I’ve learned from have all deepened my love of teaching. A certified Suzuki violin and viola instructor, I teach privately in Portland, Maine, as well as through Palaver Music Center’s After School Strings program.

In addition to teaching, I am an active performer with the Grammy-nominated Palaver Strings, a musician-led string ensemble and non-profit, where I also serve as Programming Director.