Robert was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba and began playing the violin at age nine. He holds a B. Mus. from Brandon University. He was Assistant Concertmaster of the Regina Symphony from 1980-83, joined the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra in 1983, and was a member of the first violin section from 1984-2015. Since then he has devoted himself to teaching adult violinists of all levels and coaches members of the Calgary Community String Orchestra. He has adjudicated for the Red Deer, Olds, and Lacombe Music Festivals. His mission is to spread joy through music. He brings compassion, insight, generosity and good humor to draw out the best in the violinists and musicians he encounters.