Who I am

After finishing studying composition in music school, I got stuck and was unable to write anything. I was disheartened, depressed, and I didn’t have a support network. I felt like I would never make it as a musician.

At that time, I pursued a new career in computer science. Although I have been quite successful in this career, I never felt comfortable with it; it wasn’t my true identity. If someone asked me what I do for a living, I would say that I’m a composer, and I have a day job as a computer scientist. But in reality, my computer science job was more than full time and I hardly composed.

One day, I discovered Computer Music Magazine and realized that I could make electronic music in the basement of my own home. That discovery opened up new possibilities for me. I realized I could be a practicing artist while still keeping up my career and helping to care for my family. I was quickly hooked on electronic music, and I’ve produced three albums and many more pieces.

I found again my authentic, artistically creative self, without sacrificing my responsibility to my family. Through my day job, I also discovered that I love working with people and helping them thrive. The best parts of my job were advising and mentoring people in their careers.

From my own experience, I have come to realize how confusing and tangled money, art, work, and identity can be. I can relate to artists who are struggling with similar questions.

Every artist has their own story, but so many of us have to grapple with these issues. I have discovered that I can use what I have learned to help other artists. That has led me to formal, professional training, so I can help artists sort through these issues in ways that feel clear and coherent.

As a mentor and a guide, I am a warm and empathetic listener, and I use my creativity to find good ideas that work for each individual person. I share my life wisdom and knowledge of finance to everyone I guide. Since retiring from my computer science career, I have studied financial counseling and career services. I have passed the Accredited Financial Counselor exam and am earning experience hours towards accreditation.

I feel that nurturing and guiding artists is my true calling in life.

Nothing has felt as authentic to me as what I am doing now. It combines my love of bringing art, beauty, and meaning into the world with the joy of helping people succeed and thrive.

If you would like to work with me, I will bring my lived experience, my creativity and empathy, and my professional training, to help you find a path to financial and career success and step toward it with confidence.