I began my musical career playing violin and piano as a youngster while growing up in Ames, Iowa. However, it was a memorable performance by the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the principal trumpeter Adolph “Bud” Herseth that convinced me that I must play trumpet.
Like many budding musicians, I performed in numerous school and community groups throughout high school including the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra and attending summer programs at Brevard Music Center. I earned a Bachelors degree in trumpet performance and a Masters degree in conducting from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. Also enrolled in Army ROTC, I was commissioned as a second lieutenant upon graduation and began my 25+ year conducting career in the US Army. From the White House to Carnegie Hall, Moscow’s Red Square, London’s Horse Guard Parade ground, Arlington National Cemetery, the battlefields of Normandy, New York City’s Ground Zero and everything in between, I was honored to lead professional Army Musicians in performances and ceremonies and witness first-hand the tremendous power of music to inspire, reassure, exhilarate, influence and unite people. During my tenure as Commander & Conductor of the US Army Europe Band & Chorus, I was privileged to be awarded the German government’s highest peacetime award of the Silver Cross of Honor.
Since retiring from the Army in 2013 and relocating to Breckenridge, I have sought ways to positively contribute to the community including working as NRO Orchestra Manager, adjunct faculty at Colorado Mountain College, volunteering with Summit Rotary Club, BOEC and Meals on Wheels. My husband, also a retired Army musician, and I started Music at the Summit, an Adult Band Institute now in its eighth year. I am currently serving as President of the Board of Directors for the national Association of Concert Bands.
I enjoy bike riding, hiking, skiing and instructing part time, and all that this community has to offer.