I believe anyone can learn to play an instrument. While everyone has some natural ability, I work with students to cultivate and develop those talents in ways that help them grow as musicians and people.

With 25 years of experience, I have been fortunate to work with musicians both in the U.S. and abroad. I have taught students ages 8-80, from pure beginners to professionally ambitious college players. I also coach amateur musicians in community orchestras, bands, and chamber groups.

My own journey of learning the oboe has had many highlights and many challenges. 

Through decades of performing and teaching, I have amassed numerous techniques, practice strategies, helpful analogies, and a love of classical music that I am eager to share. As they learn and lessons progress, I gradually provide fewer pointers, asking students to rely more on their knowledge and experience to help them solve problems and improve their performance. Watching students become their own teachers is honestly one of the most rewarding parts of my job.

I owe much of my success to my own teachers, James Caldwell and John Ferrillo, who have passed down a tradition of oboe playing in the U.S. begun by Marcel Tabuteau more than a century ago. I consider it my duty to continue that tradition in my work with musicians young and old.

Teaching is truly an honor. Students trust me to guide them on a path of realizing their potential, and I see that as a great privilege and a profound responsibility.