"My name is Ian, and I come from a small town in North Carolina. I grew up in a big household with two brothers, two aunts, some animals, and of course, my parents. This is where I first learned of my love for music, and it would shape the rest of my life.

Throughout grade school, I was involved in any sort of music program I could find in my institutions. Starting from 4th grade, I took an early interest in choir and then concert band. I showed an exceptional foundation for music theory, and it was evident to my music teacher at the time that I would continue with music throughout my entire time in school. From 4th grade to every grade in between, leading up to college, I participated in Concert Band, Jazz Band, Choir, Marching Band, and so much more. I have learned countless pieces and participated in numerous concerts and performances. I had the pleasure of being the percussion section leader for my last two years of high school, and I was also the leader of the front ensemble during my marching band years.

Throughout this time, I have had many great opportunities to provide coaching and tutoring to some of my classmates and others about music and help them become something greater than they could have ever imagined. From teaching show music (marching band) to simplifying basic music theory to new learners, I have taught every grade level, and I have loved every second of it. Even now, I still have a passion to teach others, which is why I am pursuing a Music Education degree so that I may teach so many more students about music and why it is such a beautiful thing." less...