"The future belongs to the creative and COMPAS fosters that in its artists and the work that it does in the schools and communities."

"As a teaching artist you need to learn how to relate to people of all ages, and all interest levels, from non-existent to totally engaged."

"Since we’re musicians with open ears and a taste for “exotic” sounds, we get exposed to a lot of stuff that the average person may not be aware of.  We feel fortunate, and love to spread that good fortune. And many of these instruments and singing styles have common elements, in the ways they sound, the feelings they evoke, sometimes the way the sounds are produced, and often even the intentions behind them."

Arts education expands minds and gives people a way to see everyday life in new ways. We need this. At work and in our everyday lives, we're bombarded with messages about what we should think, what's wrong with the world, and how we should conform. Arts education reminds us that there is a bigger picture, a more exciting way to be in the world.

It is through the arts that education comes alive. We know the world through our senses and art is something that requires that we use our senses to experience it. I also believe that through our stories, we create both community and understanding. Community, for me, is sharing our experiences, our lives, and the beauty around us.  

As an art educator, parent and professional artist I have watched art education being watered down or lost from many schools and communities. It is a place and way people can connect while having fun learning about themselves and others! Having artistic ways to express yourself is incredibly important for everyone.

Teaching connects me with the joy of making something that expresses who you are – and the joy of seeing the inner worlds of everyone around me.   It is such a fun way to connect with people.