I have loved reading books and learning new things my entire life. The learning curve has always made me feel like I am truly alive. I spent most of my life specializing as a musician (trombone). I was fortunate enough to perform with orchestras like the Los Angeles Philharmonic, New Jersey Symphony, San Diego Symphony, San Diego Opera, Riverside Symphony, Key West Symphony, in various Broadway shows and numerous recordings and movie soundtracks.
I then found a passion for teaching, and learned (through much trial and error) how to begin the lifelong learning journey that is education. I am faculty or guest lecturer at The Juilliard School, Manhattan School of Music, Montclair State University, NYU, Mannes College of Music, and Kean University. I am a Professor at Montclair State and Kean Universities in NJ.
I got the learning bug, and went back to school for an educational administration degree. I became Director of Fine and Performing Arts in South Orange/Maplewood NJ, and later became Executive Director of the Kinhaven Summer Music School in Weston, Vermont.
A year ago, I decided to ditch all of my debt, downsize my life, and learn even more new things. I have a goal of an extreme early "retirement" soon, where I will focus all of my attention on my non-profit and trombone playing. Knowing myself, however, something else will come up that I will want to learn!
In my "spare" time, I cook Italian (preferably for 25+ people at a time), run a 9 minute mile, swim, and carry a 16 handicap in golf.