About the Teacher

     I am so excited to be working with your child this year!  The 2023-24 school year will be my ninth year teaching string and orchestra students and sixth year in State College Area School District.  I absolutely love to work with younger children because it is at these ages that the magic of music begins!  It is a great joy to be a part of the students' early musical experiences and guide them on their path as budding musicians.

     I began my musical journey on Long Island, where I began playing cello and piano from a young age.  I pursued my Bachelors of Music Education at Penn State as a Schreyer Honors Scholar and also received a Professional Performance Certificate in Cello.  I have studied cello and string pedagogy with Kim Cook, Robert Gardner and Michael Sher. Ensembles that I have performed with include: the Altoona Symphony, Nittany Valley Symphony, Williamsport Symphony, and Pennsylvania Centre Orchestra, as well as various chamber groups and quartets.  I have also received my Masters of Education in Curriculum and Instruction and enjoy learning about how curriculum is created and used to support equitable learning opportunities and allow children to be creative and take ownership in their education. 

     In the past, I have taught orchestra and string lessons in Bellefonte and Altoona Area School District, as well as public schools in the Philadelphia suburbs. I aim to instill a love of music for each of my students through a nurturing and encouraging learning environment.  When I’m not teaching music, you can find me spending time with my family and miniature goldendoodle, reading, and traveling!