​

 When I was 13 years old I decided that I wanted to be a musician when I grew up, and I have never looked back. I don’t remember when piano was not a part of my life. I started accompanying the church choir in middle school, and frequently played piano and clarinet at church. When I was a senior in high school I gave an hour long recital, culminating my years as a high school music student. I am so excited that my daughter, who is a senior, will be doing a similar recital this spring with another one of my piano students!
 
I attended Capital University in Columbus Ohio and received a bachelor's degree in Keyboard Pedagogy. During my time there I also took organ lessons and was very involved in the chapel services. I also had the opportunity to study abroad my junior year, which changed my life. I spent a semester in Hungary studying the Kodaly method of music teaching. It was so inspiring and it unlocked my performing inhibitions. I decided to study music therapy in graduate school, which led me to Fort Collins, CO. 
 
While studying at CSU I started teaching piano at a day care/after school center. I joined FCMTA in 2000, which was so helpful to me in many ways. I quickly became involved in the many activities the group had to offer. Soon I was in charge of our annual Student Achievement Day which was a huge but fun responsibility! I usually have 15 students participate in this event every year for the last 20 years.
I later became vice president and president of our organization. I am currently in charge of our annual Halloween recitals at local nursing homes, and help out with our fall piano festival and spring student achievement day. 
 
I became the CSMTA vice president of local associations five year ago, and served for four years. This is my first year service as the vice president of membership. I love serving CSMTA and am glad to represent northern Colorado. 
 
Covid has turned all our lives upside down! I had to retire my Kindermusik business which was hard.  I was hired as the organist at Trinity Lutheran Church which is wonderful. I have taught most of my lessons on zoom but am now teaching both on zoom and in person. I normally teach monthly group lessons and have a summer piano camp. I am hoping to resume these important activities soon. 
 
I met my husband Bruce of almost 20 years while accompanying the choir at CSU. I am thrilled that my daughter will be singing in that same choir this fall as a CSU freshman! Bruce and I have been lucky to be able to make music together, and share that with our kids. My daughter, Helen, plays piano, flute, and sings. My son, Walter, is a sophomore in high school and plays the tenor saxophone. 
 
Music will always be a part of my life, and I am grateful to share it with my family and students.