Concert Artist: Solo, Chamber, and principal of some chamber orchestras.

 Stephen is a graduate of Columbia University. A composer of more than fifty pieces, his music has been performed by both chamber groups and orchestras in the US and abroad. The most notable performers of his compositions include the Gregg Smith Singers, Stitching Combinatie van Utrechtse Muziekbelangen, New Calliope Singers, Group for Contemporary Music, and the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble. Stephen continues to work as a freelance guitarist and conductor, performing in various national venues with the Gregg Smith Singers, the Group for Contemporary Music, the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble, and the Composers Ensemble. He also co-founded the New York Qin Society, and has performed qin music and lectured on Chinese music internationally. 

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Music has played a vital, formative role in my life for as long as I can remember. My parents are both excellent musicians.  I started piano lessons at the age of 5 and began studying violin when I was nine. Although I am classically trained and have extensive orchestral experience as a violinist and violist, I was a founding member of an Irish group and several early music ensembles, performed with folk and classical guitarists, and played in a rock and roll nightclub band. I continue to play in many churches and synagogues, do strolling violin work, perform jazz standards, and act as lead violin in an internationally acclaimed big band. I am flexible as a player and teacher and love all types of music. I see music as a wonderful means of communication and a gift to be shared!

When I work with a student it is my hope to instill in them a sense of passion and self-discipline. I believe anyone can learn to express themselves through music. I also believe that I can teach anyone how to play the violin. I love watching my students grow and become better musicians. I studied in New Jersey and in Boston. Living in two different environments has taught me a lot about life, people, and helped me learn that music is alive everywhere.