I have been a musician all of my life, starting as a vocalist. Classically trained, I did sing operatically, but found my greatest joy in singing everything from Gershwin to Gospel. After the bulk of my college training, I found myself auditioning for Fred Waring's Pennsylvanians, a musical variety show, mostly choral work, and traveling with their tour for a couple of years. I have been blessed to work with some superior musicians along the way and wouldn't trade those experiences for the world.
I have played piano for as long as I can remember. I had a studio for a time in Guthrie, Oklahoma when my son was quite small. I find piano to be the best training ground and "launching pad" to other instruments, and music in general. It's enormously helpful in any musical pursuit to have a good understanding of the piano and reading music.
HARP
A time came when I was able to pursue learning to play the harp and I didn't hesitate. I began taking lessons as quickly as I could from Lorelei Barton, a professional Tulsa harpist, and learning eveything I could. I am completing the course work to be certified to teach harp, and I find it a very lively and fulfilling occupation.
Piano
Learning to play the piano is the foundation, in my opinion, upon which you can build your musical knowledge, and you can express yourself in an unlimited way. There is no age limit for learning to play the piano, it's an ageless pursuit! It can be a skill that brings you enormous joy.
Voice
I've been singing in and around Tulsa all of my life -- just about. I have also toured nationally with a big band for a few years. I've learned how to sing from some of the best and I would love to pass on some of that gathered knowledge. I prefer teaching voice students who want to refine their sound, or students who want to take their vocal abilities as far as possible.
