MISSION STATEMENT
Through dedicated instruction in piano and organ, I aim to cultivate a profound appreciation for music in my students. My mission is to empower aspiring musicians with the skills, knowledge, and passion necessary to become accomplished performers and contributors to the musical landscape of their homes, churches, and communities. By fostering a love for music that transcends mere proficiency, I strive to enrich lives and inspire a lifelong journey of musical exploration and expression.
PIANO TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
I firmly advocate for a comprehensive approach to piano instruction, where students are equipped not only with technical proficiency but also with a deep understanding and appreciation for music. My teaching encompasses various facets including technique, ear-training, sight reading, performance skills, theory, collaborative piano, and composition/improvisation. Regardless of their aspirations, whether it be pursuing music studies at a university or simply deriving joy from piano playing, students under my guidance receive quality instruction in the following areas:
TECHNIQUE
From the outset, students are instilled with the importance of correct technique, emphasizing relaxed shoulders and wrists, rounded hands, and playing with curved fingers. Approximately 15-20% of daily practice time is devoted to technique, incorporating exercises such as 5-finger patterns, scales, arpeggios, chords, and etudes, often practiced with the aid of a metronome. Prioritizing proper technique not only enhances performance but also mitigates the risk of injuries, particularly crucial during the formative stages of learning.
SIGHT READING
Students are equipped with techniques and skills to become adept sight readers, with a focus on regularly engaging in quick study pieces to ensure exposure to new music daily.
PERFORMING
Performance opportunities abound in various settings including performance classes, recitals, festivals, competitions, and evaluations. Solo repertoire is memorized and predominantly drawn from classical literature, while exploring jazz and popular styles for enrichment. Collaborating with students, I ensure repertoire choices align with their preferences, fostering a sense of ownership in their musical journey. Beyond mastering pieces, students are coached in proper performance etiquette, including attire, bowing, bench adjustment, concentration maintenance, and coping with performance anxiety.
THEORY
Guided by programs such as Certificate of Merit (CM), Royal Conservatory (RCM), and Achievement in Music (AIM) students delve into music theory, preparing for annual exams. Additionally, I prepare advanced high school students for the AP Music Theory exam.
EAR TRAINING
Tailored to individual needs, ear training sessions focus on enhancing listening skills, encompassing identification of intervals, key changes, harmonic progressions, and music styles.
COLLABORATIVE PIANO TRAINING
Students are encouraged to explore collaborative opportunities through duets, quartets, and concerti, honing skills essential for effective accompaniment. Beginning at foundational levels, students are introduced to playing and singing alongside vocalists and instrumentalists.
COMPOSITION AND IMPROVISATION
Summer assignments in composition and improvisation foster creativity and proficiency in utilizing music notation software such as Finale, Musescore or Noteflight.
I firmly believe that while innate talent may facilitate musical growth, consistent daily practice coupled with parental support is paramount for success. Parental involvement, including attendance at lessons, facilitating daily practice, and providing encouragement, significantly enhances a student’s progress and commitment to musical pursuits.
Furthermore, I prioritize cultivating a culture of success, where every achievement, regardless of size, is celebrated. Recognizing and praising students’ accomplishments, be it a successful recital performance, examination outcome, competition participation, or memorization of a challenging piece, reinforces their progress and instills a sense of fulfillment, motivating continued dedication and growth.