Portfolio
I am sometimes asked, “What does music have to do with programming?” The answer is simple: integrity.
An excellent musician will sit in a practice room until they get it right. They work well with others, try new things to keep their skills fresh, and put themselves out into the world. If a musician can’t get it right, he or she will not get called back the next time. If they can’t get along in a team setting, none of the other musicians will give positive references. If they don’t stay fresh, engaged, interested in playing, their performance will suffer. Keep in mind it’s not mistakes that hold a musician back, it’s lack of professionalism. Preparation trumps talent and luck.
In technology, programming, and all of life really, it’s the same game. A good programmer will work until it’s right, study to keep his or her skills current, and maintain professional contacts. The same can be said for almost any profession: the people who are good at it have integrity, follow through on their word, and work to make sure they are prepared.
I have a number of different skills that I’ve used in my career, and while some of them seem to be unrelated, they are connected by my dedication to getting it right, to backing up what I say with quality work.
- Technology: I have worked as a software engineer, programmer, web designer, and business software consultant for fortune 500 companies. I have numerous Technical Skills for productivity, business, education, and research.
- Performance: I play tuba and banjo in central North Carolina. I play in numerous chamber groups and old-time bands. See my Musical Experience section for my formal musical activities.
- Teaching: I have taught applied low brass lessons, music theory, ear training, music history, and music technology at the college level. I also have worked for a number of Summer music programs. See my Teaching Experience section for details.
- Media: My musical and technical interests come together in my Recordings and Media projects.