At what age did you start playing the instrument you play in the PSO? Did you learn another instrument first?
I started studying the piano in the fourth grade after my grandmother had given me her piano that had been in the family for several generations. In middle school, I had my first organ lesson and ever since have been playing organ and harpsichord. It wasn’t until I was in college that I started playing the oboe and English horn.
Why did you choose your current instrument?
When I was 6 or 7 I remember sitting on the organ bench with my grandmother on Sunday when she played for church services.
How long have you played with the PSO?
The first time I played with the PSO was in 2014.
Where do you live?
I live in Acton, Maine with my wife and work in South Berwick, Maine.
Do you play with any other groups?
I have an active performing schedule at the school where I teach, my church and perform and accompany recitals whenever I can.
What do you like about playing with a symphony orchestra?
As a pianist / keyboardist, most of the gigs are solo or accompanying. I didn’t play in my first ensemble until I was in college. Playing with a group of instrumentalist like the PSO is so incredible rewarding for me. Because pianists don’t have a lot of opportunities every chance to play with an orchestra is meaningful.
How do you spend your time outside of the PSO?
I work at a private school in technology. Most of my work is supporting and managing information systems and database administration. In my personal life I spend a lot of time in video production, recording and live-streaming.
What is your favorite piece of music to play on your instrument?
Toccata and Fugue in d minor (J.S. Bach) which was the first “real” piece l learned to play when I was in high school and fun to re-visit.
Tell me about your musical education.
I attended University of New Hampshire, Department of Music, Class of 1995 with particular gratitude to Cleveland “Buddy” Howard (Choral), Stan Hettinger (Conducting, Wind Symphony), John Skelton (Organ) and Margaret Herlehy (Oboe).
Anything else of note you want to share?
I was ordained in 2019.
