What was your first impression of NEC? How has that changed since you’ve been here?
The admissions office is amazing. I applied to 10 schools and NEC was the most responsive. They were all very friendly and caring about answering my questions.
Tell me about your musical backstory…what got you to where you are today?
I started playing piano at age 3. When I was 18, I became interested in jazz piano and when I was 28, I was accepted to NEC to major in it.
What is the best thing about life as a jazz major?
It is a lifelong education. I can study until I die, but here I feel like I am improving every day.
Who has been your favorite teacher? Why?
Jerry Bergonzi – he is a great educator, but also a great world class performer. He applies theory to my performances and teaches me not only how to understand theory, but also how to apply it.
What makes NEC unique? Why did you choose here over other schools?
One of my favorite pianists, Fred Hersch, graduated from NEC and was faculty, at the time. I also found the students, particularly the classical students, to be really great.
What advice would you give to incoming students?
The education is amazing here. For jazz students, Boston has a great jazz scene and NEC has one of the best jazz programs.