Throughout my career, I have always strived to give my full effort to my passion for percussion. In my pursuit of finding my own musical voice, I push beyond the traditional limits of Western popular music and explore what is possible through the world art of percussion. Although my formal experience in music began relatively recently, my time at the University of Illinois Chicago has already allowed me to begin arranging, composing, and developing upcoming projects.

    Before attending UIC, I was deeply involved in music throughout high school. During this time, I also joined the Encore Concert Band in Mokena, Illinois, where, under the guidance of section leader Jan Weiland, I challenged myself by participating in every ensemble my high school had to offer. That same year, I was invited to perform with the Joliet American Legion Band for their Winter Concerts at the Rialto Theatre. I soon became a permanent member of this ensemble, continuing with them throughout my current musical career. My performance experience ranges from local park concerts to military events and performances across Illinois. One of my most notable achievements was performing with JALB and earning second place in a national competition in New Orleans, Louisiana, in August 2024, where I performed as a timpanist. I continue to perform with these ensembles to this day.

    My university experience has been a period of significant growth and transformation. I have made strong impressions on faculty and fellow ensemble members through my dedication and work ethic. I began my studies performing with the University Wind Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble, later joining the Pep Band after my first year. During my second semester, I became a member of the Symphonic Band and was selected as the percussion section leader. In my sophomore year, I expanded my musical range by joining a Jazz Combo, where I focused not only on performance but also on arranging music to be performed under the direction of Jon Irabagon, while continuing my involvement in the Wind Ensemble and Percussion Ensemble. I have performed music from a wide variety of Western musical styles and genres and plan to continue improving and pushing beyond my limits through percussion and daily musical exploration.

  Outside of music, I enjoy spending time outdoors whenever possible, cuddling with my cats, and talking with my family about my experiences living and studying in Chicago.