Teaching Philosophy

I believe the process of learning to play music can benefit people in many different ways.  It enhances and develops physical skills such as eye-hand coordination, fine motor skills, and also mental skills such as self-discipline and problem solving. I also believe that it can be one of the most joyful ways to express creativity and emotion and share these with others. In short, people need music in their lives, and it draws people together when they share it.

                  I love making music, and I love teaching others how to make music. I have personally seen how much it can help children gain confidence and overcome anxiety. I seek to help students develop the skills needed for lifelong music learning through music theory, note reading, and an understanding of how to produce beautiful musical sound on the piano. I use method books, as well as supplemental literature from many musical genres. I have sought to develop a knowledge of piano literature which allows me to help students choose pieces which are age and level appropriate and which they will enjoy playing. I believe if given the right music and opportunity to be successful, a student can be motivated to continue playing for long enough to develop the skill for lifelong learning.

                  I seek to help students learn how to practice, how to sight read, and how to problem solve and learn to hear in a musical way so they can keep playing in the long term. All students can reach a higher level of proficiency if they are given the right literature and are taught with patience and positivity