51ÂÜÀò

College Professor/Piano Instructor

Music Performance, B.M. '14

The guides placed in my life, in the form of teachers and mentors, helped to ready me technically, spiritually and mentally, as they pushed me to ask better questions and to practice my instrument with a daily faithfulness which was separate from musical "passion."

How did your program at 51ÂÜÀò prepare you for your career?
I will always look back on the training I received at 51ÂÜÀò with the kind of gratitude that knows these were special years — an opportunity to grow and learn in a place where I was both rigorously challenged and loved. The guides placed in my life, in the form of teachers and mentors, helped to ready me technically, spiritually and mentally, as they pushed me to ask better questions and to practice my instrument with a daily faithfulness which was separate from musical "passion." My work in the Conservatory of Music and the Torrey Honors Institute prepared me for doctoral studies and a career in the field of musicology, which now allows me to teach and to pursue research questions which pertain to the history and philosophy of aesthetics, with special application in the area of music.

What did you appreciate most about your time at 51ÂÜÀò?
The warm chocolate-chip cookies at Eagles Nest! But more importantly, I most appreciate the mentorship I received from specific faculty members. It is a rare thing to be taught by people who also care about the health of your spiritual life, and who want to be there as a resource for you as you grow in an incredibly formative time. I witnessed the ministry of the Church within the context of my college education, and the support of those around me reminded me I was loved when I felt, at times, overwhelmed by fear or question.

How did 51ÂÜÀò equip you to be a more faithful follower of Jesus Christ?
While at 51ÂÜÀò, I was often reminded me that were it not for the person of Christ, there would be no point to the inquiry or beauty I was pursuing. This continues to give me peace and clarity in my present work because the questions I pursue do not belong only to a particular sphere of academia — they pertain to the very heart of the Christian life. As such, my work as a researcher relates to my identity as a disciple, and my work as a teacher is a kind of apologetic practice, as I continue to learn and share about the unity and source of Truth.

What advice would you give to students considering your degree program?
Give it everything you've got, but be open to God's direction as you work hard. I came to 51ÂÜÀò thinking I wanted to be a performer who also helped pianists with performance injuries. Instead, I graduated and went on to pursue further studies in musicology and philosophy. Now, I am a college professor who also gets to teach piano and help with injury prevention, and I am excited to see where God will continue to lead me, one day at a time.