Teaching Philosophy and Policies
Inherent in the one-on-one studio situation is the freedom to adjust teaching to the unique needs of each student. Differences in learning styles can be accounted for and efficiency maximized for every learner. This is an obvious advantage for the student, but a great challenge for the teacher whose role is, above all, to understand each student: his/her background, learning style, personality, and purpose for taking lessons. The better the teacher’s understanding, the more accurately (s)he can chart a course best satisfying the needs of the pupil. Gaining this understanding requires time, attention, and genuine caring.Despite the great differences in learning styles, most people do learn best in an environment of respect, encouragement and kindness. The proactive teacher will also make it his/her job to show the student greater heights (s)he can attain, to motivate and excite, to help the student work hard and push themselves beyond their comfort zones- all from a sincere desire to see the student succeed.
Learning a musical instrument is a multi-faceted experience, utilizing many brain functions and kinds of learning. It is also multi-faceted in that the student rarely learns only the overt purpose of the lessons. (S)he also learns personal skills such as self-discipline, goal-setting, and confidence; social skills such as collaboration and accountability; and historical, cultural, and personal awareness. These side-benefits should not be overlooked, but rather be given serious consideration in the teacher’s overall strategy and self-evaluation.
In order to understand my pupils I take careful notes about each lesson. I set regular goals with the student about what (s)he wants to accomplish and how things have been going. As my understanding develops, my approach with any given student changes. When students feel tired, bored, or frustrated, for example, we turn our attention toward listening to recordings, attending and discussing concerts, or practicing chamber music. Such activities can help excite, form emotional connections, broaden understanding, give new perspectives, and otherwise change students’ attitudes.
At the same time, I am committed to honing my own professional expertise in the areas of performing, composing, writing, and collaborating. As a student, I have been most inspired by teachers who have been the most active in their own careers, and this is my goal as well. My overall musicianship both enhances, and is enhanced by, my teaching.
I believe in teaching classical music in order to propagate the styles, skills, and sounds of the past. I also believe that teaching music is a wonderful way of making lives better- my students’ as well as my own.
Summary
My teaching is oriented towards 3 basic objectives:- Teaching and refining the skills of playing the piano (physical and mental)
- Imparting knowledge, perspective, and understanding (of history, art, and society)
- Personal development (including self-discipline, goal setting, self-awareness)
Expectations:
I expect my students to do the following:- Set thoughtful goals with me at the beginning of each semester.
- Attend a weekly lesson and monthly studio class.
- Meet daily practice goals.
- Attend and report on at least one classical music concert per semester.
- Complete listening, reading, research, writing, performance, and other assignments as they become pertinent to the student's goals.
- Email me in advance if you cannot attend a lesson/class. Telephone if it is on the day you will miss.