My Teaching Philosophy
I consider teaching to be a vocation—it is a calling and charism to touch the lives of others through instruction. My priority as a piano teacher is to help students become independent musicians. Independent musicians are note-readers, performers, listeners, and “fiddlers” of the keyboard. They have skills for deciphering rhythms and are strong in music theory. Independent musicians have technique that allows them to approach a piece of music with sufficient mechanical ability, through both their fingers as well as their entire bodies. They are comfortable showing emotion through their playing and enjoy the challenge and pursuit of a piece of musical literature; practicing is mostly pleasure, having ample tools to practice with effectiveness. Memorization is yet another means to make music—it is neither intimidating nor impossible to the independent musician. And most importantly, an independent musician has a deep and lasting love of music.
I teach these elements primarily through classical instruction; that is, using both repertoire and technical training from what is traditionally taught in schools of Western art. "Classically trained" is a complicated term, but generally encompasses the wide array of western literature (Baroque to Modern, Bach to Bartok, etc.) and the specific technique that goes along with each kind of music. Young children won't start their first year playing Bach, however! I use modern series which are very good at leading a child through pedagogical landmarks. But from the very beginning I teach technique that will allow the easy transition into classical music--no classical education is complete without serious study of all forms of scales, arpeggios, chords, and theory, all taught in some form from the first lesson.
Does this mean that I do not like pop music or won't teach it? Absolutely not. My students know that I LOVE pop and especially jazz. Sometimes modern pieces will take a child's ability to count or play in syncopation to new heights! Every one of my older students have "fun" books they dip into, but the majority of their education comes from classical repertoire and exercises.
I teach these elements primarily through classical instruction; that is, using both repertoire and technical training from what is traditionally taught in schools of Western art. "Classically trained" is a complicated term, but generally encompasses the wide array of western literature (Baroque to Modern, Bach to Bartok, etc.) and the specific technique that goes along with each kind of music. Young children won't start their first year playing Bach, however! I use modern series which are very good at leading a child through pedagogical landmarks. But from the very beginning I teach technique that will allow the easy transition into classical music--no classical education is complete without serious study of all forms of scales, arpeggios, chords, and theory, all taught in some form from the first lesson.
Does this mean that I do not like pop music or won't teach it? Absolutely not. My students know that I LOVE pop and especially jazz. Sometimes modern pieces will take a child's ability to count or play in syncopation to new heights! Every one of my older students have "fun" books they dip into, but the majority of their education comes from classical repertoire and exercises.
