To participate in the evolution of human consciousness.
First, on my own path, to live more and more fully toward awakening into conscious awareness.
Second, to create and share music that supports others on their evolutionary journeys toward awakening.
(b. 1953) Native of small-town Minnesota. Grew up there and in Phoenix, Arizona. Formal education in classical music (organ performance, choral conducting, choral arranging). Grad studies in Christian theology at seminary, then later in creation-centered spirituality and in consciousness and the arts.
After living in Berkeley and San Francisco for 20 years, I moved to Tucson, Arizona in 1997 -- for the immense sunshine and summer heat, combined with its somewhat liberal-progressive bent.
During the past 25 years I have been an explorer in quest of 'Who am I -- really?' This exploring took me through East-West religious thought, diverse spiritual practices and mysticism, psychology and consciousness.
I also continued to serve on-and-off as a church organist and choir director. About 15 years ago I returned to the piano as well, but in ways different from my early training. I took some jazz lessons and coaching in free improvisation, and I started to try my hand at composing. I seem to have evolved my own style that fits no good, clear label.
Right now I have a day job to pay the rent. I meditate daily for sanity. And I live a pretty simple lifestyle.
Through all my exploring I've often felt 'on the edge' -- of society, of established religion, of the music world. Now I've begun to embrace and celebrate being on the edge, being an outsider.
If I needed a label, it would be a transitory one -- the facets intertwining in various ways and shifting in order of significance. As of this writing I'd say I'm a 'Queer Mystic Musician.'