Teaching Philosophy
Anyone, at any age, can learn to play the piano. Music is a universal experience that spans the ages and brings us all together. My goal is to provide an entrance into, and an experience of, the world of music for each of my students and their families.
I approach each student as an individual. From kindergartner to grandparent this may be the only time during the week when they have someone’s undivided attention. I strive to be a good listener, and to respect the student’s likes and dislikes while challenging them to try something new and different. I expect and ask for their best effort while giving them my best. I work to create a safe, supportive, professional learning environment.
As the student's mentor, I seek to:
When the student eventually leaves my studio, I want them to be able to look back and see how much they have grown as a pianist and as a person. Regardless of how, or if, they continue their formal music education; whether they continue to study piano or focus on another instrument; whether they participate as an audience member at a symphonic concert, high school jazz band concert or simply explore the different styles of music on their favorite electronic device; I hope they will agree with Rachmaninoff who said: "Music is enough for a lifetime, but a lifetime is not enough for music."
I approach each student as an individual. From kindergartner to grandparent this may be the only time during the week when they have someone’s undivided attention. I strive to be a good listener, and to respect the student’s likes and dislikes while challenging them to try something new and different. I expect and ask for their best effort while giving them my best. I work to create a safe, supportive, professional learning environment.
As the student's mentor, I seek to:
- foster an understanding and appreciation of all styles of music,
- teach the grammar of music,
- develop careful and discerning listeners,
- facilitate learning skills and modes of learning that can be applied in any learning situation,
- share the enjoyment of creating music at a level of personal excellence,
- encourage risk-taking and creativity, and
- encourage each student to share their musical accomplishments with those around them.
When the student eventually leaves my studio, I want them to be able to look back and see how much they have grown as a pianist and as a person. Regardless of how, or if, they continue their formal music education; whether they continue to study piano or focus on another instrument; whether they participate as an audience member at a symphonic concert, high school jazz band concert or simply explore the different styles of music on their favorite electronic device; I hope they will agree with Rachmaninoff who said: "Music is enough for a lifetime, but a lifetime is not enough for music."
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