My teaching philosophy is rooted in a love for learning, passion for music, and a desire to help students grow. I teach from the perspective that all students are Artists, Musicians and Instrumentalists in that order. As a student of music, identifying myself within these three aspects continue to influence and inform all the music I create. As an educator I strive to inspire students to adopt this philosophy and implement them into their own musical world.

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Artistry: 

This is an understanding and realization that all music is art. Therefore, all students will be considered artists. An Artist will be defined as such: One who produces or expresses what is beautiful, appealing, or of more than ordinary significance.

 

• Understand the artistic intent of any given piece of music (in any style). 

• Understand and cultivate the student’s artistic contribution to the music.

• Choose music that inspires the student and can therefore inspire a listener.

• Believe that every piece of music is artistic expression. This include the simplest of exercises to concert repertoire.

• Develop the desire to create. Creating includes interpretation, improvising or composing.

 

Musicianship:

Defined as knowledge, skill, and artistic sensitivity in performing music.

 

Students are therefore encouraged to:

• Develop an understanding of the language of music.

• Understand how to communicate with this language. 

• Understand how to use musicianship to create artistic intent.

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Instrumental skill:

Defined as the ability, coming from one's knowledge, practice, aptitude, etc., to do something well.

 

Students are therefore expected to:

• Understand and respect their individual instrument and how to apply oneself to create the art of sound.  

• Understand that skill does not mean virtuosity. Rather, it is expected that each student makes a concerted effort to improve skills no matter how small or incremental. 

• Develop necessary technical skills to facilitate musicianship and artistry.

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Method

I will always be a student myself. As such, I endeavor to learn from my students to find effective ways to teach and inspire. In private instruction I spend the first lesson discovering what a student finds exciting their instrument, their levels of experience, and long-term goals. This is followed by discussing the fundamental aspects of playing the guitar - positioning of the body to hold the instrument, and the basics of balanced and dynamic posture. Depending on the student’s level of experience I will create their first practice task which may include utilizing a book, learning some basic chords and something fun to learn for the next week. I use this method regardless of the student’s skill level. Each lesson is tailored to fit the areas in which they can improve the most in one week as well as over several months.

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Private Lessons

A typical private lesson begins with questions about the student’s experience was in the previous week as well as field any question they may have. It is always my goal to meet the student where they are and move forward from that point.

Relationships

All students are welcome. Every student is an individual and are treated with respect and understanding. I enjoy getting to know my students if time permits at the end of lessons. I believe that it is crucial for the student to view me as both a person and a teacher. I frequently ask my students questions and allow them to ask me anything they’d like within the bounds of what is appropriate.

 

Discipline

I believe that teachers must have a high standard for their students. I am not afraid to push them when needed and to be honest with them (depending on their age and level). My job as a teacher is to help my students grow. Having high standards of discipline is key to that growth. I encourage my students to practice a consistent amount every day, with a maximum of one day off per week, so that they can truly realize their potential as musicians and learn what it means to be disciplined with something you love doing.

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Organization

Though not required, I encourage all students to use practice charts which I can provide is necessary. Having a practice schedule makes the task of practicing much less daunting and allows students to balance practice time with other life activities. For younger students, it is helpful to have the parents involved in this process by having them sign off on the practice sheet, however, as they get older, I try to involve the parents less and encourage them to be more self-motivated in filling out and sticking to their practice chart.