Why did you choose the USC School of Music?

Proximity to home, family history.

What person, course or experience was most influential for you while at the School of Music? 

Prof. John Kenneth Adams introduced me to the masterpieces of piano literature and taught me to understand them.

Although I never had a class with Dr. Arthur Fraser, he gave me sage advice from the first day I arrived on campus. He was the model of true musical and academic professionalism.

How has your education at the USC School of Music helped you in your life and career? 

My training in piano, theory and music history provided the foundation and the inspiration for everything in my career.

What is one of your favorite memories, classes, professors or activities while attending the School of Music? 

Perhaps the most memorable experience during my years at Carolina was participating in the Concert Choir. My freshman year was also the beginning of the tenure of Prof. Arpad Darazs. Although I never taught choral music, his charisma and artistry provided inspiration for many aspects of my work.

What advice would you give current students or recent graduates pursuing a music performance or music education career? 

Let love for the music be the center of everything you do and always practice a little harder than you think you can.    

What is one of your proudest professional or personal accomplishments that occurred after graduating from the School of Music in which your education played a role?

I think my forty-three-year teaching career at Samford was successful. I was also privileged to perform some great chamber music with wonderful colleagues. Toward the end of my career, I published three books that I’m reasonably proud of.

What ensembles were you a member of while at USC?

Concert Choir

What is currently playing on repeat on your Spotify/Pandora/Apple Music, etc.?

Along with opera and vocal chamber music (especially Voces 8), I’m in awe of the piano playing of Yuja Wang and Daniil Trifonov.