My wife, Paula, and I recently celebrated 47 wonderful years of marriage. We have two daughters, Kelly (married to Jon) and Amy (married to Ben), and six amazing grandchildren: Aubrey, Reese, Sydney, Cole, Owen, and Graham. I grew up in Indianapolis, graduated from Warren Central High School, and attended Ball State University.

Paula and I have lived in Kimblewick for three years. What we've enjoyed most are the wonderful people we've met and the many activities that have helped us connect with our neighbors. We've made some great new friends and enjoy participating in the many community events together.

I was fortunate to have two incredible mentors who inspired me early on: Ray Laffin, my junior high band director, and Bob Day of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Their encouragement and passion for music played a major role in shaping my lifelong love for it.

I primarily perform orchestral, concert band, and jazz music, and I've played the trumpet throughout my musical career.

As a music educator, I've always believed it's important to continually practice and improve your craft. Staying in shape as a musician is essential. One of my favorite quotes comes from the legendary Doc Severinsen:

"If I don't practice for one day, I know it. If I don't practice for two days, my band knows it. If I don't practice for three days, everybody knows it."

Doc continued touring well into his 90s and recently celebrated his 99th birthday. His dedication has always inspired me.

Performing with Doc Severinsen and serving as principal trumpet with the Indianapolis Philharmonic Orchestra are certainly career highlights.

However, teaching has always been my true passion. I directed bands at Carmel Middle School until 2012 and continue working with students of all ages throughout Hamilton, Marion, and Boone counties. I truly enjoy getting to know my students and helping them grow from complete beginners to confident performers. Watching them develop and succeed is one of the most rewarding parts of my career.

I've been influenced by many wonderful musicians and teachers, especially Larry McWilliams, my band director at Ball State University, and my experience playing in the university's jazz band.

Growing up, I was a huge fan of Chicago and Blood, Sweat & Tears. I loved hearing rock bands with a strong horn section, something you don't see as often today. I also admired Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass. Herb is now in his 90s and is still touring to sold-out crowds, which is incredible.

Bringing joy to others through music. That's what it's always been about for me.

One of my biggest challenges came during college when I struggled with my embouchure, which is the way a trumpet player uses the lips, tongue, and facial muscles to produce sound. My trumpet professor, David Greenhoe, referred me to the graduate assistant for additional instruction.

When I successfully performed my junior recital, I was overwhelmed with emotion because I had overcome something that once seemed impossible. That experience taught me perseverance and gave me greater confidence as both a musician and a teacher.

Earlier this year, I performed a trumpet solo during the Kimblewick Singers concert on May 1 and played "Taps" outside my home on Memorial Day. Several neighbors attended, making it a meaningful community experience.

I also participate in Taps Across America, a nationwide tradition in which approximately 10,000 musicians perform "Taps" simultaneously at 3:00 p.m. on Memorial Day to honor those who gave their lives in service to our country.

Throughout my career, I've also performed at The Palladium in Carmel, The Jazz Kitchen with the West Winds Big Band, the Kokomo Park Band, and the Indianapolis Wind Symphony.

I simply hope people enjoy the music, whether I'm performing a solo or playing with a larger ensemble. Music has the power to bring people together, lift spirits, and make the world a better place.

At the time of this interview, I'll be performing with the West Winds Big Band at The Jazz Kitchen on August 18, 2026. We typically perform there about four times each year.

The West Winds Big Band is currently working to finalize a performance here in Kimblewick in early December. We're excited about the opportunity to bring live big band music to the neighborhood, and I hope many of our neighbors will come out and enjoy the performance with us.