"A mentor is someone who allows
you to see the hope inside yourself."
- Oprah Winfrey
My musical journey was guided by mentors who offered me the greatest gift one person can bestow upon another — the unwavering belief that I “could do it.” I am now passionate about paying it forward to the next generation of musicians, grateful for the opportunity to inspire positivity and touch the future. To arm students with confidence and problem-solving skills is to empower them to achieve throughout their lives, and that’s what teaching is all about!​
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I also understand that it isn’t just students who are motivated by instructors; the relationship is definitely reciprocal. Having a front row seat to witness kids conquer challenges, or discovering which catalysts will finally lead to “aha moments" — these are events I do not take for granted. To uplift and to be uplifted in the same instant is an amazing privilege. The longer I teach, the more I develop a deeper understanding of the violin, of music, of why we play, and of human nature. There is no greater teacher than teaching itself, and I crave every opportunity to keep unveiling the magic of the violin alongside my students.
Why I teach
Why they
play
I champion the idea that music can be a sanctuary for kids as they grow — a safe space in which external stressors can actually fuel inspiration. To foster this emotional connection to the violin, I motivate students by rewarding effort rather than outcome, and I only hold them accountable to one standard:
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Whether the violin encourages kids to become role models in their orchestras, or whether their passion grows “to play a more instrumental role” in the trajectory of their lives (no pun intended), I am equally gratified by the unique ways in which music has impacted my students.
“Do the best that you can do.”
Why they're proud
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served as concertmasters of high school / regional orchestras (e.g., Glenbrook Symphony Orchestra, New Trier Orchestra, Illinois Math and Science Academy Orchestra, Lane Tech Prep Orchestra, Midwest Young Artists Conservatory)
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accepted as youngest members of community orchestras (e.g., Park Ridge Civic Orchestra, Missouri Philharmonic)
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invited to summer festivals (e.g., Interlochen Center for the Arts, Musicorda Music Festival, Blue Lake Fine Arts)
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awarded violin scholarships to college (e.g., University of Colorado Boulder, University of Illinois Chicago)
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performed as non-music majors in college orchestras (e.g., Yale University, Dartmouth College, Northwestern University)
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earned Bachelors / Masters of violin performance (e.g., Missouri State University, DePaul University)
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won seats in post-college orchestras (e.g., Civic Orchestra of Chicago, Lake Shore Symphony, Aurora Symphony)
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employed as professional musicians (e.g., concertmaster Ozark Orchestra, Fort Smith Symphony, private violin teacher)
​ Student Highlights
GOLDBERG VIOLIN
The value of musical education cannot be quantified
because there is no concrete measurement of personal fulfillment,
but achievement and confidence clearly stand
as cornerstones of self- acceptance!
​​“Music can change the world, because it can change people.” - Bono
