D.M.A., University of Colorado
M.A., San Francisco State University
B.A., Calvin College

Trumpet performance and teaching. I also coach brass ensembles at the West Michigan Fine Arts Association. I've been a high school and college band director and have taught music history, music appreciation and brass methods at the college level.  

I've reviewed recordings for the International Trumpet Guild Journal.  

High School: McDonald's All American Band, All State Band in California and South Dakota. Graduate School: Selected to be a graduate assistant at University of Colorado for two years. The second year, I was the only trumpet instructor at the university as the full time professor was on sabbatical.
Professional: Performed at several International Trumpet Guild conferences; backed up many excellent musicians and actors including Doc Severinsen, Lily Pons, Jim Nabors, Mac Davis, Jerry Lewis and Dave Brubeck. 

What can students expect from your classes? From your division?

Students can expect to work hard and have fun. There is a real cameraderie in the music department at Cornerstone.

Of all the classes that you may teach, which one are you most passionate about?

Private trumpet lessons. 

If you are gifted and work hard, you can do well.  

Where were you born or raised?

My father was a pastor, so we moved frequently.

Family information:

Married to Edith for 34 years. We have three grown children. We live in an old house in Eastown with two cats, a dog and a daughter, who is studying graphic design at Grand Valley State University. 

I enjoy exercising at the YMCA in the winter. In the summer, I like to go camping and ride my bicycle. I enjoy playing trumpet professionally (Grand Rapids Civic Theatre) and electric bass at church. I like to travel to California where one of my daughter lives. 

Doc Severinsen. He always played with excitement and enthusiasm.  

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5). 

It is a very friendly place. One can make connections very easily whether with students or faculty.