Since the age of three, I have been submerged in the music world. My parents where always incredibly supportive and dedicated to getting me to where I needed to be, and practicing what I needed to practice. (Their consistency and commitment is one of the reasons I love my job now.) 

For 10 years, I studied classical piano. I participated in many Sonatina Festivals, syllabus exams, group lessons, master classes and multiple recitals. I performed from the age of 3 until I was 13, gaining a solid musical foundation that strengthened my artistic expression and freedom as I first discovered my true musical love. Singing. My first performance was a small solo at my home church. It was really well received and that inspired me to begin private voice lessons. Little did I know that it would become a constant part of my life. I studied privately from the age of 13 and still continue my personal private study today. I whole heartedly believe that you never stop learning. Growth and progress come with consistency, positive reinforcement and a personal mantra to strive for progress, not perfection. 

When I was in my 20’s, I had taken a one year hiatus from voice lessons. I knew that I had more potential to do something with music, but still unclear as to what path. It was at this point in my life that I was referred to (the now late) Gisela Goettling by 2 separate people. Both of these people I met in random encounters and in such a serendipitous way that I felt I was being lead to her.  We met and instantly started to form an incredible teacher-student bond that grew into one of the influential relationships of my life. Her musical integrity and mastery helped me to develop my voice into a professional instrument. She encouraged me to begin teaching privately, as she saw us as kindred spirits in that respect. Her wisdom, strength, knowledge and strong unconditional love for me guided and inspired me over our 16 years together. It was during this time that I discovered the joy teaching added to my life. I was excited and was learning even more through my students, and still continue to with every lesson taught. I knew after a short while that teaching was always going to be a part of my musical journey. I have now been teaching voice for over 24 years.

                                                                             (Me and Gisela, my mentor and friend)

Throughout the last 28 years, I have performed professionally at dozens of Chicagoland churches as a soloist and section leader in various professional choirs. My art has allowed me to share in the extreme highs and lows we experience in this life. The joy of a newly married couple excited to embark on their new life together at a wedding and also the grief and sadness of losing a loved one at a funeral service. I am both humbled and honored to be a part of these very intimate and personal moments. My work life is spent doing what I love, and loving what I do. And for that, I am truly grateful.