Piano Teaching Philosophy. Piano study includes complex integrative brain processes, use of gross and fine motor skills, artistic awareness, graph reading, and creativity. With beginning students I emphasize the development of basic musical skills before music literacy, so that we can begin making music from the very beginning. When students understand and can perform beat, rhythm, pitch direction, dynamic contrast, and phrasing, reading music becomes an exciting step on the road to creating more music. Contrast this with the student who does very little music making at the first lessons. They are trying to decipher the musical staff, struggling with coordination and finger numbers, and playing only boring one note songs. It’s a lot at once and can discourage young beginners. For students who have a developed sense of musicality, we don’t waste time, but for those who are still struggling to put everything together, we spend time listening and moving to music, singing, and doing finger exercises at the piano. As their basic musical skills improve, I introduce music notation and we spend more time at the piano.
While I don’t necessarily prescribe the same method for every student, I am partial to the Piano Adventures series because it develops well rounded young musicians who play musically from the start and approach music reading from various directions. How long and whether a student uses method books depends on the goals of that student and the length of time they plan to take lessons. As students become more advanced, we explore efficiency of motion and repertoire outside of method books, drawing on piano repertoire from a variety of genres. I strive to develop students into musicians who are capable of interpreting music from the major compositional periods of piano repertoire as well as modern music. They will compose, improvise, and learn theory, aural skills, and history.
Voice Teaching Philosophy Through exercises and varied repertoire students will learn to produce a pleasant vocal sound, read music, and interpret songs from genres including classical, folk, musical theater, jazz, and some pop. A student’s vocal health is always the first priority as we find ways to clear tensions that hold them back from their best singing voice. Singers are musicians too! Reading music and understanding theory will open up more opportunities for creation and collaboration.
Performing. Performing experiences are valuable to musical and personal development. During the school year, I provide one casual and one more formal event each year, preceded by Saturday performance classes where my students can meet and play for one another. In the past, my students have enjoyed "Haunted House Concerts" where we dress up and play our pieces in minor, as well as more traditional spring concerts and festival opportunities.