My musical journey has been as diverse as it has been inspiring. After spending several years honing my craft in the U.S. Army Band, I found myself drawn to the vibrant music scene of Kansas City. I was first exposed to military musicians while still in high school, and it seemed like a promising path. The discipline and training were invaluable, but eventually, I knew I had to forge my own musical path.
When I left the military, I set my sights on Kansas City, driven by a dream to lead my own ensemble and collaborate with world-class jazz musicians. Kansas City provided the perfect canvas for my aspirations—it’s a melting pot of musical talent and creativity, and I knew it was where I needed to be.
Alongside my passion for jazz drumming and composing, I’ve always had a deep love for songwriting across different genres. From rock to folk to Latin styles, I’ve never wanted to limit myself to just one sound. Whether it’s the improvisational freedom of jazz or the raw energy of rock, each genre offers its own unique canvas for artistic exploration. For me, it’s all about the music, and I find inspiration in artists ranging from Paul Simon to Green Day, and from Nat King Cole to Mose Allison.
No matter what style I’m playing, my goal remains the same—to create music that connects with people. Whether I’m leading a jazz ensemble, writing songs, or exploring new sounds, my passion for music drives everything I do.