Susan's formal musical training includes study with Dr. William Gora at Appalachian State University.  After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education from ASU, Susan taught private music lessons and worked at Tempo Music (in Hendersonville, NC).  Eventually Susan went back to school, earning a degree in Computer Science.  She now works as a Network Administrator for a large manufacturing company.

Susan’s love for all styles of music shows in her wide variety of experience, including work in big bands, show bands and wind orchestras, touring the United States and Europe.

"Back home" in Western North Carolina, Susan performed in numerous musical theater productions with the Asheville Community Theater and also played in several prominent big bands, including the UNCA "Community" Jazz Band and the Buddy "K" Big Band.

During her time at ASU, Susan shared the stage with such legendary jazz greats as Ed Shaughnessy, Rich Matteson, Lionel Hampton, and Clark Terry. The most recent "really fun gig" she did was performing with The Four Tops in Charlotte.

Susan is currently a member of the Carolina's Olde English Wind Ensemble (affiliated with Winthrop University), with whom she recently traveled to Spain, performing at the opening ceremonies of an international music festival. 

Her collaboration in Ocean Breeze is Susan’s first venture into the R&B and Beach Music scene.  Susan’s jazz and big band experiences add richness to the Ocean Breeze sound.