From New York to Penn State

My Evolving Journey as a Music Director: From New York to Penn State

My journey as a music director has been an exciting and ever-expanding adventure that has taken me from Melbourne to Singapore, New York, and now, to State College, Pennsylvania. Each new chapter has deepened my understanding of the power of music in storytelling and broadened my approach to music theatre. After years of working professionally in New York's fast-paced, creative environment, I have recently transitioned into a new phase of my career as a lecturer for the Music Theatre program at Penn State University.

My time in New York was nothing short of transformative. It was in this vibrant city that I truly honed my craft as a music director, working on Broadway/Off-Broadway productions, working on productions around the country, collaborating with some of the best talent in the world. The fast-paced, high-stakes environment of New York demanded versatility and adaptability, and it was here that I solidified my passion for guiding artists through the collaborative process of creating musical theatre. The opportunity to work with directors, choreographers, and performers at the top of their fields was both humbling and inspiring.

However, as much as I thrived in the professional world of music theatre, I always had a deep desire to return to education and share my experiences with the next generation of artists. The more I reflected on my own journey, the more I realized how important mentorship and teaching had been to my growth. The decision to move to Penn State University came from a desire to create an environment where students could not only learn the technical aspects of music direction but also understand the heart of collaboration and the artistry behind every note, every phrase, and every performance.

At Penn State, I am fortunate to work with passionate, talented students in a dynamic academic setting. The Music Theatre program offers a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between artistic creativity and technical proficiency, and I am excited to guide students through that process. It’s a privilege to be able to pass on the lessons I’ve learned from my diverse career in both the professional and academic worlds. By fostering a supportive, creative environment, I hope to inspire students to explore their full potential as artists, collaborators, and leaders in the world of music theatre.

As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded that every stage of it has shaped who I am as a music director and educator. Whether working on a Broadway show, conducting a student rehearsal in Singapore, or teaching in State College, the core of my work remains the same: to create meaningful, transformative musical experiences. I look forward to continuing this journey and to helping shape the next generation of music theatre artists here at Penn State.