Growing up in Urbana did wonders for me. Despite the relatively small population, the University of Illinois and Krannert Center for the Performing Arts attracted some of the most amazing musicians in the world. Growing up, I got to see Wynton Marsalis and Jazz at Lincoln Center, Joshua Redman, Chick Corea, Christian McBride, and many others perform.

My relationship with the trumpet actually began on the classical side of things. Throughout middle and high school, my incredible teacher Sal Percoco taught me to be a good trumpet player first. It wasn’t until more than halfway through high school that my love for jazz exploded.

I’ve played in a variety of ensembles over the years, including the ILMEA All-State Honors Band (3rd chair trumpet), ILMEA Honors Jazz Band (3rd chair, again), the East-Central Illinois Youth Orchestra, and Chromium Winds, a Winter Guard International Winds Champion. My passion for music extends to all genres - if I can make music with someone else, I’ll be happy.