Why “Create & Inspire?”

Music is a field where inspiration can come from different sources, but it's often the people we meet who leave a lasting impact on our journey. For me, Steve Gage had and continues to have a profound role. In this blog post, I want to glimpse the “why” in my musical life and share how Steve Gage's mentorship inspires my creative path…

Some Background

More than two decades ago, I was at a crossroads, trying to decide where to pursue my undergraduate degree. I had several choices, but what caught my attention was the high quality of music programs offered at Youngstown State University in 2002. I was impressed with Jazz Ensemble 1 and the YSU Symphonic Wind Ensemble, but my conversations with Michael Crist and Steve Gage helped me choose YSU. Steve talked with me, asking about my musical goals, and provided compelling opinions, making the case that YSU was the perfect place for me to achieve those goals. His genuine interest in music made a deep impression on me and ultimately influenced my decision.

A Role Model for Life and Music

My time at Youngstown State University was truly life-changing. During my studies, I developed a strong passion for performing, teaching, conducting, and composing, all of which were closely linked to the mentorship I received from Steve Gage. Steve was a remarkable individual who exuded joy and passion in all his endeavors. He set high standards for us and pushed us to perform at our best. His belief in the importance of excellence in musicianship, education, and performance for anyone pursuing a musical career still resonates with me today.

Steve Gage was an inspiring musician and a role model in life. He was dedicated to his family, music, and students - he truly believed that his work could make a difference in the world. His contagious phrases like "Love Music!", "Shoot for the Stars!" and "Dare to be great!" were more than words – he lived by them. Under his guidance, I participated in some of my most memorable and musically fulfilling performances.

Even after I graduated, Steve's support remained unwavering. He frequently visited as a guest of honor to mentor my bands, checked in on my family, and encouraged me to explore new career opportunities. His emphasis on family made him stand out even more. He proved that one could have a family and still pursue a high-level professional career as an artist. His constant phone calls, text messages, and spontaneous DMs kept me motivated and connected to my passion.

Steve Gage was more than just a mentor – he was a true friend. He was the first to program my composition for the wind band, "Hashtag" (#), and I often made trips to YSU to have lunch with him at the MVR (a local Italian favorite) when I felt overwhelmed by the demands of my second teaching position.

Steve rehearsing his SWE on a visit to YSU in 2016-2017.

Embracing Change

In the summer of 2019, I faced a tough decision in my career. Due to a district-wide reorganization, my teaching position was "temporarily vacated," my colleagues and I faced a restructuring where we would be reassigned to take on more and maintain. At that time, I had recently completed a master's degree in music composition and had been attending conducting workshops. After the district made that sudden decision, I realized that it was the perfect time to prioritize my family, take a calculated risk, and pursue a full-time career as a composer and conductor despite the perceived insecurity it presented. Although it was a difficult decision, it had numerous benefits for my family and my mental health. We could finally have dinner and spend quality time together, which was something I had not prioritized for years. Throughout this transition, Steve Gage provided unwavering support. He encouraged me with messages of support and showed genuine interest in my work, even during the challenging initial years of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Honoring a Friend and Mentor

In early 2023, I lost my dear friend and mentor, Steve Gage, due to complications from Marfan's surgery. His passing created a void because he was one of those constants in my life that I took for granted, but his legacy continues to live on through the values he instilled in his students.

I am sharing this story because the influence of Steve Gage serves as a guiding principle in everything I undertake in my musical endeavors. In my opinion, music should engage the creative mind and inspire active participation. I may sound like a hopeless romantic, but if more people engaged with the world this way, the world would be better for it. Steve's teachings continue to shape my approach to music and life, reminding me that the most significant art comes from the heart and is meant to be shared with passion and joy.  

I had the great privilege and honor of being a part of the Alumni Wind Ensemble that was put together by Stephanie, Claudia, Matt, and Brendan (Steve's family) to honor Steve. It felt as if I was on stage with him again. I am grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this experience.

Steve Gage, you continue to inspire, and your legacy lives on through the music I create and the lives I touch. Thank you for being a guiding star on my musical journey. Every time I engage in music-making, I think about you.

"Create & Inspire" represents the belief that music can be a positive force that connects people and challenges their way of thinking. At a surface level, "Create" emphasizes crafting music and embracing the role of an artist, while "Inspire" recognizes music's inherent power to move, stir, and motivate others. It symbolizes the profound impact that music can have on the human spirit, sparking emotions, storytelling, and deep contemplation.

This is a commitment to using music for societal engagement, acknowledging its ability to unite individuals and provoke meaningful interaction. I recognize my role as a creator and catalyst for positive change, fostering connections and transformation through music.