My Philosophy
Teaching has been an interest of mine since childhood. When adults inevitably asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up, I would respond with “a math teacher!” My affinity for music developed later, around the same time I realized how terrible I was at algorithms. I combined my newfound ability for all things musical with my lifelong desire to educate others and began my journey to be a music teacher. I’ve yet to experience a greater joy than sharing my passion for music with others. I want to inspire students to express themselves through their artistry, explore the depths of their passions and develop skills that will benefit them as members of society. The pride and joy felt when a student has a breakthrough as a result of your combined work is overwhelming and life affirming. Teaching is also reciprocal, and as much as I help students with their songs and techniques I am always amazed with how much I learn from them in return.
My specialty is in vocal music, focusing on healthy vocal production and setting strong musical foundations that will benefit students in their future musical pursuits. I am skilled in solfeggio with hand signs and a variety of musical instruments, which I use in tandem to teach songs and create new compositions with my students. I approach music with a positive and fun attitude that inspires others to go beyond simply learning note names and rhythmic patterns. Encouraging students to develop a relationship with music is incredibly important to me, so I strive to show students you don’t have to be a “professional” musician to be a success. Music is for everyone, from the most casual of listeners to the seasoned veterans of the stage. No child should feel they can’t participate because they “aren’t good enough,” and all students in my classes are given the opportunity to shine! I also recognize and cherish the educational value in bringing a variety of cultural backgrounds together to learn. My curriculum reflects a diverse selection of musical repertoire that promotes a worldly view of music, supported by historically relevant context and background.
When a child feels they are not being judged for trying new things, they can truly excel in the performing arts and life in general. Safe spaces are essential for learning, so I utilize the #Day1 challenge in my classroom (http://tylerclementi.org/) to establish a bully free zone, both in person and in online communications. This encourages students to be open minded and supportive of one another, creating an environment where they can express themselves freely while exploring their musical sides. This is not to say there are no rules to adhere to - on the contrary, I have high expectations around setting up and taking down the classroom, treating classroom materials and each other with respect, and always putting forth our best efforts.
I believe strongly that in order to be a successful teacher, you must be a successful advocate of your craft. Music is a transcendent language that should be accessible to students of all backgrounds. I have seen firsthand the positive impact music can have on students in difficult situations and truly believe in the therapeutic and healing power of music. It is essential that future generations are not denied these opportunities during their crucial years of development. Through community involvement and performances, thorough recruitment and fundraising galore I keep educational advocacy as a key component of my professional career.
In short, I believe the unique sum of my musical and educational experiences will provide a rich and enjoyable musical education for every student in my program.
My specialty is in vocal music, focusing on healthy vocal production and setting strong musical foundations that will benefit students in their future musical pursuits. I am skilled in solfeggio with hand signs and a variety of musical instruments, which I use in tandem to teach songs and create new compositions with my students. I approach music with a positive and fun attitude that inspires others to go beyond simply learning note names and rhythmic patterns. Encouraging students to develop a relationship with music is incredibly important to me, so I strive to show students you don’t have to be a “professional” musician to be a success. Music is for everyone, from the most casual of listeners to the seasoned veterans of the stage. No child should feel they can’t participate because they “aren’t good enough,” and all students in my classes are given the opportunity to shine! I also recognize and cherish the educational value in bringing a variety of cultural backgrounds together to learn. My curriculum reflects a diverse selection of musical repertoire that promotes a worldly view of music, supported by historically relevant context and background.
When a child feels they are not being judged for trying new things, they can truly excel in the performing arts and life in general. Safe spaces are essential for learning, so I utilize the #Day1 challenge in my classroom (http://tylerclementi.org/) to establish a bully free zone, both in person and in online communications. This encourages students to be open minded and supportive of one another, creating an environment where they can express themselves freely while exploring their musical sides. This is not to say there are no rules to adhere to - on the contrary, I have high expectations around setting up and taking down the classroom, treating classroom materials and each other with respect, and always putting forth our best efforts.
I believe strongly that in order to be a successful teacher, you must be a successful advocate of your craft. Music is a transcendent language that should be accessible to students of all backgrounds. I have seen firsthand the positive impact music can have on students in difficult situations and truly believe in the therapeutic and healing power of music. It is essential that future generations are not denied these opportunities during their crucial years of development. Through community involvement and performances, thorough recruitment and fundraising galore I keep educational advocacy as a key component of my professional career.
In short, I believe the unique sum of my musical and educational experiences will provide a rich and enjoyable musical education for every student in my program.