I learned percussion at age 10 in Pontiac, Illinois, and continued with it through college. Bob Beebe, my first band teacher, was both playful and focused, instilling in me the joy and the discipline required for good musicianship. He and Ringo Starr were my first musical idols! Having recently become a member of the Peninsula Symphonic Band (2010), I already am finding the camaraderie delightful! Professionally, I'm an architect, specializing in sustainable home design (more at my web site for those curious).