In March of 2002, I graduated from the Lawrence Conservatory of Music in Appleton, Wisconsin with a B.Mus degree in Music Theory/Composition (with an emphasis in jazz studies). During my four years at Lawrence, I studied trumpet with Professor Robert Levy. Earlier I studied with Dr. Frank Hanson at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, and with Dr. Calvin Weber at the Indiana University of Pennsylvania.

At Lawrence, I studied arranging and composing primarily for large and small ensembles. My composition and theory teachers during this time included John Harmon, Ken Schaphorst, and Steve Wiest. I was the section leader and lead trumpet player of The Lawrence University Jazz Ensemble for over 2 years. In 2000, the group won the Downbeat award for best college jazz ensemble. The group made several recordings, including "The Music of John Harmon", which features Bobby Shew on trumpet.

I teach trumpet (all levels) at “The Lesson Factory”, Shasta Middle School, and at my home in the Ferry Street Bridge area. Currently, I play in the "Blue Skies Big Band" and "Swingshift." I also play with “Sound and Fiori” and my new jazz combo “Straight, No Chaser.” Each group plays regularly in Eugene.