Guitarist, Composer, Educator

I’m a guitarist and composer whose playing is rooted in groove, rich harmony, and a deep love for creative expression. Over the past 30 years, I’ve had the chance to make music across a wide range of styles—jazz, blues, funk, rock, roots, and Latin—with a sound that I’d describe as lyrical, grounded, and always searching. My work blends deep tradition with imagination, and my guitar playing reflects a lifetime of listening, learning, and growing—on the bandstand, in the studio, and in the classroom.

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For me, music is a vital, expressive force—one that helps us connect more deeply with ourselves and with each other. That belief guides everything I do, whether I’m playing on a large stage, composing music for strings and guitar, jamming with students, or playing solo for a quiet room. I try to bring care, integrity, and soulful intention to every musical moment.

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I’ve released four albums as a leader, including Have You Ever Seen the Sun, Montréal, and Insight at Midnight. These projects have given me the privilege of collaborating with some extraordinary artists—Nate Smith, Kofi Burbridge, Jeri Brown, Camille Thurman, Stephen Riley, and many others! I’ve also had the honor of performing with Branford Marsalis, René Marie, the North Carolina Jazz Repertory Orchestra, and the North Carolina Symphony, among many others. I feel fortunate to have played in jazz clubs, festivals, pit orchestras, concert halls, and multimedia installations.

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In addition to performing and composing, I’ve spent much of my life as an educator. I’ve taught and performed on five continents, and I’ve taught and/or directed programs at several colleges and universities, including Concordia University in Montréal, North Carolina Central University, UNC-Chapel Hill, NC State, and the University of Richmond. I love helping students at all levels build their technique, expand their creativity, and find their musical voice. Many of my former students are now successful artists and educators themselves, and it brings me real joy to see them thrive. I’ve also led clinics, workshops, and interdisciplinary projects for learners of all ages—work that continues to inspire and challenge me.

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These days, I’m based in Durham, North Carolina. I perform, record, teach privately and in studios, and develop new interdisciplinary work. I’m still as inspired as ever by the power of music to tell stories, open hearts, and move people—and I’m grateful every day to be part of that journey.