Teaching Philosophy

I believe music is an integral part of life, and the skills learned in music can be applied far beyond the rehearsal space. Music provides students with opportunities to learn discipline, cooperation, professionalism, leadership, and the ability to appreciate beauty in life that few other classes teach. I strive to teach more than just notes and rhythms. In my classroom I encourage critical thinking, thoughtful experimentation, self-reflection, and lifelong growth.

I believe students learn best when they are challenged by high expectations coupled with a comfortable learning environment in which it is ok to make mistakes. Students should feel comfortable enough to participate and understand that failure is an important part of learning. I want my students to know that it is ok to fail as long as they reflect upon the experience and learn from it. That’s the learning process.

The music curriculum comes from the repertoire studied. Knowledge acquired while studying pieces of various eras, styles, and composers can be applied to all future learning. Eventually, students understand how music works and its history, which helps them better express their thoughts and feelings. I think individual attention is important and that instruction should be varied based on the needs and interests of the students. Both students and teachers should constantly reflect upon the learning process and how it can be improved.

Everyone can remember a teacher or class that inspired them to pursue something new. I aim to inspire my students by acknowledging them as individuals and pushing them to achieve their goals. Through music, students learn to how to interact with others and embrace their differences. When students graduate from my program I want them to apply the process of learning and self-reflection to everything they do. Education should above all else provide students with the tools to discover who they are and who they want to be.