Jonathan was inspired to start playing trumpet at age seven & continued studying under the direction of Professor of trumpet Emeritus at St. Scholastica (MN) & UWS, Earl Salemink during his early formative years, Robert Baca at the UW-Eau Claire during his undergraduate experience, & finally with Dr. Allen Moore at SCSU during his graduate & post-graduate work. Jonathan used his trumpet as his primary teaching tool throughout his career as a high school band director where his concert, jazz, & sports bands received regional, state, & national recognition under his tutelage. Now as a college instructor, Jonathan works beyond his own classrooms in over thirty Minnesota high schools through the College in the Schools Program. Jonathan’s Compositions have been premiered by the Army Band, and featured as Google's 'top ten events to attend on Veterans Day.' As Director of Instrumental Music at Central Lakes College Jonathan directors five ensembles & teaches music education. Jonathan also works as an adjudicator/clinician nationally & abroad through Music Festivals & Tours Unlimited. Jonathan's music education success has been recognized in the 2022 edition of Marquis Who’s Who in America and was selected to represent Minnesota in the National School Band & Orchestra Magazine’s annual 50 Directors from 50 States Who Make a Difference in 2019. Jonathan maintains an active performance schedule in four jazz groups & as a freelance classical, symphonic and liturgical soloist and singer.