I attended Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois as an art major but, in addition, I had the fortunate opportunity to tour, perform and record with the Millikin University Jazz band. It was during my later college years where I studied music theory, ear training, improvisation and Jazz theory. This was also the time that I had the chance to meet and perform with notable musicians of the time such as Bill Homan, Doc Severensen, and Mel Torme.
As a previously self taught musician I have found that this is not always the best route to learning music. I started as many young musicians have, going through the long hours of practice only to get frustrated and put the instrument aside. Luckily, my desire to learn music and my curious nature propelled me to continue on, and self motivation pushed me to become the musician I am today. So, it is in my opinion that through the encouragement of someone who has been there, young musicians will benefit from the instruction of someone who can instruct them to avoid the bad habits and advance more quickly as a musician.
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