Sam is a multi-instrumentalist who graduated with a bachelors in violin performance from DePauw University studying under Dan Rizner. Other areas of study included classical and jazz theory & composition, classical and jazz piano performance, jazz guitar, improvisation, string ensemble, pedagogy, conducting, philosophy, and psychology. He was a member of the Indianapolis Youth Orchestra (1997-2000) and Indianapolis New World Youth Symphony Orchestra (2000-2004) and was a three year gold medal winner of the Indiana State Solo and Ensemble Competition for solo violin and string ensemble studying under Margaret Dugdale, Larry Shapiro, and Susan Kitterman. After graduating, he spent three years in Massachusetts as a member of various bluegrass and old time bands as well as the Wyndham Philharmonic in Brattleboro, VT and began teaching privately. Since 2008, he has lived in Brooklyn, NY and recently relocated to Fishers. While in New York, Sam was a founding member of the Brooklyn Bluegrass Collective, an active recording artist, and part time member of the Summit Symphony Orchestra. He ran a private lesson studio of 20-30 students weekly with bi-annual recitals and taught at the Brooklyn Conservatory of Music. He has toured extensively throughout the U.S. and Europe and performed at various festivals including Grey Fox Bluegrass Festival in Oak Hill, NY, Westport Bluegrass festival in Westport Ireland, and Dooley Folk Festival in Doolin Ireland. He teaches all levels of violin/fiddle, beginner/intermediate piano, acoustic guitar, mandolin, ukulele, theory, and improvisation. In addition to 15 years of teaching experience, he has spent many years working with special needs individuals as a social worker.