Cannon River Stem School

Music

* Calling all recorders *

Are you a 4th or 5th grader that has a recorder at home or know a friend or family member that will let you use one? Please bring it to school as soon as possible to use in music class.

About me: I grew up in Medford, WI which is in north central Wisconsin.  There I attended public school from Kindergarten through 12th grade.   I began studying trumpet in sixth grade and am still performing regularly.  I have performed in marching band, pep band, jazz band, wind ensemble, pit orchestra, hand drumming, state solo/ensemble, the Wisconsin All-State Band, and Very Special Arts.  I earned a Bachelor of Music degree at the University of Wisconsin Green Bay and have both a K-12 Wisconsin teaching license and K-12 Minnesota teaching license in Instrumental and General Music.

I am happily married to my wife Colleen.  Prior to joining the Cannon River STEM School staff I had a variety of educational experiences in music education, special education, and as a tutor in the Green Bay Public Schools and Rochester Public Schools.  I continue to volunteer in the Rochester Concert Band, and am a supporter of any live musical / theater groups.  I am also an avid Wisconsin sports fan, and enjoy golf, curling, and reading in my spare time when I am not teaching or performing.  I will be glad to answer any questions you have of myself or our music program, etc at the Cannon River STEM School.  Feel free to email me, or call 507-226-5007.  Thank you.

Philosophy: As a teacher and musician I value curiosity, critical thinking and independent thinking as a means toward learning music.  My music classes are fun yet focused, where a student centered learning environment is my goal.  Throughout the year, I use whole group, small group, and individual instruction, with our music students to develop singing, performing, composing / improvisation and analytical music skills.

2011-2012 School Year: I am hoping to continue our successful musical learning environment where we all push ourselves to strive to do our best.  I am anticipating a successful and educational Family Arts Night in February, with a band concert to go along with it, and a school music / band concert in May!