This is a picture taken from Howard University's biannual Electronic Music Recital, an event I had the honor of participating in in fulfillment of requirements for the composition portion of my Bachelors in Music. This concert was executed in partnership with local artists composing companion pieces to our musical presentations, and with the Howard University Robotics Club, who developed autonomous flying drones which accompanied the concert in a synchronized light show.

As part of my work as a promoter of new music, I was invited to complete a 6-week residency at the Atlantic Music Festival in Waterville, ME, where I worked as a member of their Contemporary Ensemble to premiere over 50 new works by student composers at the festival. As part of my fellowship at this festival, I was placed into a leadership position where I was the "resident expert," and was able to give guidance on compositional craft, practicality of execution for the instrument, and seminars on percussion-specific technical writing to festival participants. This opportunity not only connected me with rising composers from all over the world whose works I have continued to highlight following the festival in my personal recital programs, it deepened my experience working with high-school and college music students alike in an education setting, something I can always improve as an educator.

(above) Me and the other members of the Atlantic Music Festival Contemporary Ensemble.