I believe everyone can make music — compose, improvise, interpret — and attain a level of competency that enables them to connect with themselves and others. While I value virtuosity, I recognize that there is plenty of satisfying music-making to be made on the journey there, and it’s okay if we never make it to virtuosity.
This is how I make this belief come true:
• I help students become independent learners: I help students understand how to evaluate themselves. I can describe what one should listen for, what it should look like, and how it should feel, so that students know when they are successful.
• I systematically pinpoint problem areas and solve them with manageable steps.
• I am positive, patient, and fun. I am just picky enough so that one improves, but not so much that one feels discouraged.
• I am open-minded and like to learn about what moves students musically.
My favorite part about teaching is when students get excited about what they are able to accomplish and when they feel empowered by music.
