How did you become interested in this line of work? (tell us a little bit about your background)

When I was 3 years old, before I even knew what work was, I fell in love with sound playing my grandparents old upright piano. My junior year at Purdue University I took a field trip to Central State Psychiatric Hospital in Indianapolis. When I met the psychiatric patients, I knew I wanted to work with them. During my graduate work at Indiana University I studied music and psychology. When I graduated I went to NY where I worked as a therapist and researcher at Bellevue Psychiatric Hospital and performed music with experimental composers and poets in the evening. My interest in the importance of sound and music as a healing art began when I was asked to supervise the music therapy program at Bellevue. My love of sound and music and my dedication to the healing arts became merged. I like to say that I work up to my calling. 

Please share a wellness tip or word of advice that relates to the workshop you will be presenting.

We are conscious vibrational beings living in an infinite vibrational universe. Sound and music are creative practices that have been used for thousands of years to help us to meet life challenges and continually adapt, change, and create new possibilities in our lives.  

What or who inspires you? (This could be anything from your mentor to your favorite quote)

“Now, if I do anything, it is to tune souls instead of instruments, to harmonize people instead of notes. If there is anything in my philosophy, it is the law of harmony:  that one must put oneself in harmony with oneself and with others” Hazrat Inayat Khan 

What personal or professional accomplishments are you most proud of?

Personally, I am proud of my three sons and two grandchildren and my wife Thea who dances to the music of the spheres. Professionally I am proud of my many patients and students and all they have accomplished and the continual inspiration I receive from their accomplishments.