I grew up in a house full of good music and started playing the piano at age 8. I began with classical music and moved on to more contemporary/pop and boogie woogie styles. I took a pause in my piano studies to learn the guitar. I mostly focused on folk music and finger picking. I quickly realized I was better at the piano than guitar and got back into playing piano at age 12. 

I mostly focused on the blues/jazz and honing my improvisational skills. I started playing in blues/rock and roll bands at a young age and built a good reputation in the West Lost Angeles music scene.  I studied music at Santa Monica College. Former/current influences include: Ray Charles/Oscar Peterson/Vince Guaraldi/Dave Brubeck/Bill Evans. I loved Leon Russell, Joe Sample, Herbie Hancock & Chuck Leavell. Some of my current favorites are Ramsey Lewis, Stevie Wonder, Dave Grusin, Bob James, Diana Krall, David Benoit to name a few!