Over the years many of my musical inspirations arise late at night or upon waking. Then, so as not to lose it to the "I'll remember that in the morning" syndrome, I stumble to the piano to plunk it out before it vaporizes. As a result it's uncertain that a finished product will ever emerge from documenting that inspiration. But those unexpected "pop in" melodies that do develop into competent songs can be a wake up call, especially if it makes it to the air waves where others can relate to your music.

I started piano lessons at age 9 and was self-taught on acoustic guitar by age 12. My parents bought me my first electric guitar on my 13th birthday (what a way to kick off the teenage years) and the Beatles were my biggest influence in forming my desire to pursue music.

I graduated from the University of Wisconsin with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music theory and applied piano. I studied voice under Dr. Edwin Foot and participated in a musical organization called the Meistersingers for 4 years. We toured the state performing classical and contemporary music for public schools and business organizations. While at school I composed an instrumental arrangement that was performed by the university orchestra. That was the pre-MIDI era where scoring for transposed instruments and notation was hand written on staff paper.

I received a Certificate of Merit commendation for excellence in creative writing, originality, technical skill and talent in composition from the 7th Annual American Song Festival: Two single publishing contracts from House Of David-BMI in Nashville, TN for two country songs, "One More Time" and "You're All I Need To Get By": Airplay in the mid-west for various compositions. Recently I received a Finalist award in the Instrumental category for participating in the 11th Annual Great American Song Competition.

Fabulous, feel good inspirational music, could not sit still in my chair since the music provoked the need to move. I pictured ballet dancers and butterflies.

review written by: Nancy Johnson