More Than Just My Work

As a child, I was an impulsive and challenging young boy for those around me. Luckily, my Grade one teacher recognized musical aptitude and love for music early on. By Grade 5, I was singing in the Edmonton Opera as music saw me through much hardship, providing a place of refuge and safety. In 2003, I moved to Vancouver to study with a teacher many call “the Yoda of saxophone.” From his wisdom, I learned that my self-worth was too heavily tied to my playing, and I needed to explore my identity and find strength in other places. I discovered this metaphorical strength in literal strength training through powerlifting. This, along with a musical pilgrimage to New Orleans, allowed me to reconnect with joy and heal from past wounds in a way I never thought possible. Today, I find my joy in helping others find their inner light through their art.