Erik began his piano studies in Port Charlotte, Florida, where he won numerous competitions and scholarships throughout Southwest Florida, including the Southwest Florida Concerto Competition, which he won twice. He completed his high school diploma at Edison Community College and served as the accompanist for the college choir.

Erik then entered the Oberlin Conservatory of Music, studying with Sanford Margolis and Sedmara Rutstein. As a freshman at Oberlin, he had the unique opportunity to tour the southwestern United States as both an accompanist and a soloist, showcasing his versatile talent and commitment to music.

Erik continued his studies at Westminster Choir College, studying with José Ramos Santana, and completed his Master’s degree in 1996.

Erik taught at the Westminster Conservatory for 27 years, from 1996 to 2024. From 2001 to 2016, he also taught at Mercer County Community College, where he provided private and group lessons and helped develop the piano curriculum. During this time, he performed recitals on behalf of both schools, including three online recitals during the COVID crisis. In 2004, Erik performed a benefit recital to help raise money for the Arts and Humanities Council for his hometown of Port Charlotte, Florida.

Erik has recently begun his own studio in Lawrence, NJ, where he lives with his wife of 25 years and their two children.