Occupation: I am starting my first year as band director at Newtown High School. In this position, I lead the Newtown High School Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, and Marching Band and Guard. I will also be teaching group lessons during the school day.

How long have you lived in Newtown? Despite having started marching band rehearsals at the beginning of July, I officially moved to Newtown on August 1st.

What do you like to do in your free time? What free time? I try to go for a walk every day to get some exercise and clear my head. If I have more time, I like playing baseball, hiking, or playing guitar or piano.

What is your favorite travel destination? In college, I studied abroad in London. I would love to go back there and spend more time exploring the city. Some sights that I would like to see (or see again) are the Tower of London, British Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, Wimbledon, Greenwich, plus get tickets to as many West End shows as possible.

What is the best part about Newtown? The people. I haven’t been in Newtown for very long, but everyone I have met so far has been incredibly kind and supportive.

What organizations are you part of in Newtown? Newtown High School Band and Guard! Members of the Newtown community, come to the Grasso Festival at the high school on October 16th! Marching band has my attention now, but after the season ends, I look forward to learning more about Newtown and everything it has to offer.

Who has been the greatest influence in your life? My music teachers. They have shown me what it means to work hard and push myself to be the best I can be. They have also demonstrated how important it is to love what you do.

Who is your favorite musical artist? It’s hard to pick one artist or group. I think it changes every day. Lately, I have been listening to Lorde, Harry Styles, and a variety of classical music. I tend to eventually make my way back to The Beatles.

What is the greatest piece of advice you have ever been given? If you are feeling overwhelmed, take a step back and break down what you have to do, whether it’s day by day or hour by hour.

What is something you cannot live without? Music! I am always listening to music, either in my head or on Spotify.

What is your proudest accomplishment? I am proudest when my students feel as passionate about music as I do. I love it when they commit themselves to music, whether that’s performing at a high level, working hard in sectionals, volunteering for band events in the community, auditioning for honors ensembles, helping younger band members, or continuing to play music after they graduate.