The cornerstone of my teaching philosophy is joy. Music can enrich our lives and the benefits associated with musicianship are immeasurable. I became a music teacher because of the joy that music brought me in my formative years. I admit I did not enjoy lessons when I began them, I felt no drive to practice and would in fact cry on my way to lessons. My love for the piano was being crushed by the intensity of the expectation of perfection. As a teacher, I vowed to ensure that it was never my instruction that caused someone’s love of music to dim. I find that you can instill discipline, intrinsic motivation, and technique with positivity, kindness, and a touch of humor. I expect progress from my students, but never perfection.

It is vital to teach to the student in front of you because not all humans learn the same way. There is no “one size fits all” piano method for me. I select piano method books based on each student’s age, level, and learning style. If one doesn’t fit, then we find another. I strong encourage student choice in literature selection as well. My students have shown me music that I would have never known if it wasn’t for them. I believe I have just as much to learn from my students as they do from me.