Assistant Professor of Commercial Music
Where did you obtain your degrees?
Western Michigan University, Bachelor of Music – Jazz Studies
Columbia College Chicago, Master of Fine Arts – Music Composition for the Screen
When I was exploring college options, Commercial Music wasn’t even on the table yet. I knew I wanted to perform and write songs—I had huge rock-star dreams. Jazz Studies was the closest path I could pursue in a college setting that aligned with my interests. Western Michigan University stood out because of its touring ensemble, Gold Company, which had performed at my high school in Stevens Point, WI. Their energy (and the leadership of Steve Zegree) left a lasting impression on me. Inspired, I auditioned for the program and soon made the move to Kalamazoo, MI to begin my journey
Tell us about your first job after you graduated from college.
A good friend from Western Michigan University had already started making waves in Chicago and invited me to join his newly formed corporate band. Those first few months were slow as we worked to get the group off the ground and secure bookings. Then I came across an audition for a position on the Odyssey cruise ship, which docked at Navy Pier—and landed the job. Performing about 15 shows a week was intense, but it was an incredible opportunity to sharpen my skills and connect with constantly changing, diverse audiences.
How did your career path lead you to teaching at Tiffin University?
As a professional musician, you learn to wear many hats. I performed piano and vocals in piano bars, played weddings, bar mitzvahs, corporate events, theater shows, and taught voice at several local high schools. I even busked in the subways and took nearly every gig that came my way. Eventually, I connected with three like-minded friends who shared a love for ’70s-era acoustic vocal rock, and together we formed a band called Down the Line. We built a strong Midwestern following, gained representation, earned radio airplay, and sold over 40,000 albums independently. Our success led to national tours with artists like Peter Frampton, America, and many others—an incredible ten-year journey.
When the band eventually dismantled, I continued with my next project, Stolen Silver, which landed placements in film and television. In 2009, I joined actor Gary Sinise’s band, named after his iconic Forrest Gump character, The Lt. Dan Band. That role took me around the world, performing for military members and their families—a deeply rewarding experience that also led me to meet my wife, Julie, a fellow singer in the band. Today, we have two wonderful children.
Like many, COVID forced me to reexamine my career and the realities of travel. Around that time, Tiffin University/Brad Rees invited me to join the faculty. So, we made the move from downtown Chicago to downtown Tiffin, beginning a new chapter in music and education.
How do you prepare students for challenges they’ll face in their careers/after graduation?
Because I stay active in the industry and continue composing music for films and shows outside the classroom, I often bring my current projects into class to “open the hood” on real, industry-focused work. Students get to see the entire process—from the client’s initial notes to the final deliverables—which gives them a true sense of what the job entails.
I also run a private Discord server dedicated to my touring experiences. It’s a space where I share honest insights about life on the road—beyond the curated world of social media—including both the highs and the challenges. Students can ask questions, engage in real conversations, and even commiserate with me about those 3 a.m. lobby calls.
What makes Tiffin University stand out to you as a faculty member?
Smaller class sizes, cutting-edge equipment and studio gear, a state-of-the-art Dolby Atmos studio, and professors who are deeply invested in their students’ success.
How do you incorporate TU’s motto – “Without risk, there is no gain” – into your own life or classroom?
I’m always candid about the challenges of building a career in the creative arts. I lead by example and emphasize that risk is inevitable in this field. Optimism alone isn’t enough—we talk about possibilities, but I make it clear that failure will happen. In fact, some of the most valuable lessons come from what doesn’t work. So, what do we do next? We rise.
Because I stay active in the industry and continue composing music for films and shows outside the classroom, I often bring my current projects into class to “open the hood” on real, industry-focused work.
What’s a fun fact most people don’t know about you – or an interesting hobby?
We bought our Tiffin home from two former Heidelberg professors who had created an incredibly elaborate garden in the backyard. At first, I had zero gardening experience, and honestly, it was intimidating to maintain what they had started. But over time, I discovered that I love it. Now, I really enjoy tending to the garden and doing my best to keep it thriving—(though I’ll admit, there’s still plenty of room for improvement. Thank heavens for gardening apps).
What’s your favorite book, film, or quote – and why does it resonate with you?
One of my favorite lines in music comes from Jeff Tweedy of Wilco in the song “Jesus, etc.” It’s a beautifully poetic image that captures both wonder and impermanence: “You were right about the stars… each one is a setting sun.”