I started learning to play the bagpipes on February 13, 1997, at the age of 21. A burning fire was lit inside of me when I saw a pipe band play at Dickens on the Strand in Galveston TX on December 8th 1996. From that point on, I was determined to do what it took to learn to play the pipes, even if it meant having to drive 250 miles one way to have a lesson. (Read the motivational article about Stanley Fontenot entitled, "A Piper's Tale")

I got on the Internet to see what I could find about bagpipes and was overwhelmed by what I found (this was my first time to use the internet). I found a pipe shop in Houston TX and called to find out more information about piping. I learned what I needed to get started and was referred to a teacher as well. Two months later I took my first lesson.

I continued to have lessons weekly. I often practiced for 2 hours a day and enjoyed every chance I got to practice and to have lessons.

I reached the point where I was ready to start working with the pipes after 6 months of working on the practice chanter. A set of pipes was loaned to me and I began “squeezing a bag of cats.” The beginnings were pretty rough but got better as I started to play tunes that people could recognize. I could play in public and not embarrass myself 10 months after my first lesson. I was able to play only a few tunes but began to play at schools and funerals. As time when on I played for more funerals and began playing at weddings.

My instructor thought I would be a good teacher for beginners. I started teaching 7 months later. I continued to teach and had as many as 25 students whom I taught over a period of time. Some would come and go but I have always had a consistent flow of students. Lars Sloan, whom I worked for, wanted to take the students that we had and start forming a band. He asked me to be pipe sergeant. I was also the pipe sergeant in the Houston Police Pipes and Drums. I often led the band in parades and at funerals.
I have played at more than 400 different places over the last 7 years, including countless funerals, weddings, parties, golf tournaments, and the list goes on.

I am currently teaching the bagpipes to some wonderful people and am a member of the Bayou City Pipes and Drums.

I am available for piping gigs.

To my Lord and Savior I give all glory for the things he has given me.

In Jesus Name!