Excited to Begin a New Chapter as Assistant Professor of Oboe and Music History at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi This Fall While Cherishing My Time at UTEP and Looking Forward to Joining the Islanders.
I am beyond thrilled to share the news that I will be joining the faculty at Texas A\&M University-Corpus Christi as an Assistant Professor of Oboe and Music History starting this fall. This opportunity represents not only a significant step in my professional journey but also a deeply meaningful moment in my personal and artistic life. As I prepare to take on this new role, I find myself reflecting on the path that has brought me here, the incredible experiences I have had at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), and the excitement and anticipation I feel about becoming part of the vibrant community on the island with the Islanders. This transition is one filled with gratitude, hope, and an unshakable passion for teaching, performing, and contributing to the world of music in meaningful ways.
My time at UTEP has been nothing short of transformative. It has been a privilege to work with such talented and dedicated students, each of whom has challenged me to grow as an educator, performer, and mentor. Over the years, I have witnessed their hard work, determination, and love for music, and I cannot adequately express how deeply rewarding it has been to be part of their musical journeys. From the first time I stepped into the classroom or rehearsal space, I was struck by their enthusiasm and eagerness to learn, and it has been an honor to guide them, challenge them, and watch them flourish as musicians and individuals. Every lesson, ensemble rehearsal, recital, and casual conversation has left a lasting impression on me, and I will carry those memories with me as I begin this new chapter.
The colleagues I have had the privilege of working with at UTEP have also played a huge role in shaping who I am today as a teacher and artist. Collaborating with such brilliant and passionate individuals has been one of the greatest joys of my time there. Whether we were preparing students for recitals, brainstorming ideas for innovative performances, or simply sharing our experiences and insights, these collaborations have left me inspired and motivated to always push for excellence. The supportive and creative environment at UTEP has allowed me to explore my own artistic vision while contributing to the musical and cultural life of the university, and for that, I will always be deeply grateful.
Leaving UTEP is certainly bittersweet. It is difficult to say goodbye to the students and colleagues who have become like family to me. I will miss the daily moments of connection—the encouraging words before a performance, the breakthroughs during lessons, the shared laughter during rehearsals, and the collective joy of making music together. But even as I prepare to leave, I know that the bonds we have built will remain strong, and I will continue to cheer on my students and colleagues as they achieve great things. Their dedication to their craft and their resilience in the face of challenges have inspired me time and time again, and I have no doubt that they will continue to make an impact in the world of music and beyond.
As I look ahead to my new role at Texas A\&M University-Corpus Christi, I feel a profound sense of excitement and anticipation. The opportunity to join such a dynamic institution, known for its commitment to excellence in the arts and education, is both humbling and inspiring. I am eager to bring my passion for oboe performance and music history to the students there, to challenge them, to inspire them, and to help them discover the joy and transformative power of music. Teaching is not just about sharing knowledge; it is about creating an environment where students feel empowered to explore, experiment, and express themselves. At Texas A\&M University-Corpus Christi, I hope to foster that kind of environment—one where students can grow not only as musicians but as confident and creative individuals.
The unique setting of the university on the island adds another layer of excitement to this next chapter. There is something deeply inspiring about being surrounded by the natural beauty of the ocean, and I believe that this environment will provide a rich backdrop for artistic exploration and growth. I am eager to collaborate with colleagues and students alike to create meaningful musical experiences that reflect the spirit and energy of the island. Whether through solo performances, chamber music, or interdisciplinary projects, I look forward to contributing to the artistic life of the university and the broader community.
Music history, in particular, is a subject that I am passionate about because it provides a lens through which we can better understand not only the music itself but also the cultures, societies, and individuals that created it. In my classes, I strive to make music history come alive for my students, to show them how the past continues to inform the present, and to encourage them to think critically and creatively about the role of music in our world. At Texas A\&M University-Corpus Christi, I am excited to continue developing innovative and engaging ways to teach music history, drawing connections between the classical repertoire and contemporary musical practices, and helping students see themselves as part of a living, evolving tradition.
Of course, the oboe will remain at the heart of my teaching and performance activities. The oboe is an instrument that requires patience, dedication, and a deep attention to detail, and I have always loved guiding students through the process of mastering it. From the intricacies of reed making to the nuances of phrasing and tone production, there is always something new to discover on the oboe, and I look forward to exploring these challenges and joys with my students at Texas A\&M University-Corpus Christi. I believe that every student has a unique voice on their instrument, and my goal as a teacher is to help them find that voice, develop it, and share it with the world.
As I prepare to embark on this new journey, I am filled with gratitude for everyone who has supported me along the way—my mentors, colleagues, students, friends, and family. Each of them has played a part in shaping who I am today, and I carry their lessons and encouragement with me as I move forward. Change is never easy, but it is often in these moments of transition that we grow the most. I am ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, to learn from my new colleagues and students, and to continue evolving as an artist, educator, and human being.
There is a special energy that comes with the start of something new—the feeling that anything is possible, that the future is full of potential, and that the work we do can make a meaningful difference. That is exactly how I feel as I look toward the fall semester and my new role at Texas A\&M University-Corpus Christi. I cannot wait to meet my students, to hear their stories, to share my passion for music with them, and to begin building a community of creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. I know that this will be a place where I can not only teach but also continue to learn, grow, and be inspired.
While I will always cherish my time at UTEP, I am excited to step into this next chapter with open arms and an open heart. I am ready to dive into new projects, to explore new musical horizons, and to contribute to the rich cultural tapestry of Texas A\&M University-Corpus Christi. The thought of becoming part of the Islanders family fills me with joy, and I am determined to bring my very best to this new role.
To my students and colleagues at UTEP, thank you for everything. Thank you for your trust, your dedication, and your unwavering passion for music. You have left an indelible mark on me, and I hope that I have been able to give you even a fraction of the inspiration you have given me. I will continue to cheer you on from afar, and I hope that our paths will cross again in the future.
To my future students and colleagues at Texas A\&M University-Corpus Christi, I cannot wait to meet you. I am excited to learn from you, to collaborate with you, and to create something truly special together. Let’s make music, tell stories, and build something that will resonate far beyond the walls of our classrooms and concert halls.
As I step into this new chapter, I am filled with gratitude, excitement, and a profound sense of purpose. Music has always been my guiding light, and I am so fortunate to be able to share that light with others. This fall marks the beginning of a new journey, one that I hope will be filled with growth, discovery, and unforgettable moments. Let’s go, Islanders! The adventure begins now, and I could not be more ready.
