Extensive Bio (Page 2 of 9)
I was able to study music composition privately with Dr. Leroy Williams at Edinboro University from grades 8 - 12. It was there that I blossomed. Dr. Williams introduced my ears to everyone from Stravinsky and Ravel to Manhattan Transfer and the Singers Unlimited, for which I am forever grateful. During this time, my high school band director was needing a bass player for the high school jazz band, and he asked me if I would be willing to learn. He handed me a book and sent me to a practice room during Jr. High Band rehearsals. My technique was awful, but I learned how to swing. I wrote my first big band chart, a blues in F, in the eighth grade. Despite living in a rural town, I was afforded some very good musical experiences as I grew up by participating in music festivals and attending summer concerts at the nearby Chautauqua Institution.