Practicing method
I believe that every student has equal opportunity to experience and learn about music and have the ability to succeed in a musical endeavor. It is my job as a teacher to set the expectations at a high level, higher than what the students think they can achieve at first. Whether or not the student actually achieves the expectation at face value is not the point. The journey to reach those heights is how the student truly discovers music and art, their instrument, and themselves. It is my goal as an educator to perpetuate knowledge, promote learning, and encourage discovery. I encourage growth in my students by giving them the tools that can guide them through this learning experience. To develop these skills, my curriculum includes: listening critically to multiple performances of the music on which they are working, selecting appropriate repertoire, and maintaining physical and emotional well-being. In addition, I teach a method for practicing effectively. The components are:
1. Evaluation - the ability to self-assess
2. Isolation - the ability to determine the areas for improvement
3. Strategy - the ability to develop a plan of action
4. Integration - the ability to adopt their strategy as habit
Qualities music teaches
I believe music education is extremely important because it teaches students qualities that cannot be measured in tests or elsewhere in academia. These qualities are:
- compromising
- leadership
- patience
- self-discipline
- working with others
- dedication
- responsibility
- motivation
- persistence/endurance
- self-awareness
Classroom management and differentiated learning
Classroom management takes an important role in this learning process. I am both a flexible and understanding teacher, but am not afraid to maintain an organized classroom when it comes to behavior. I provide students with objectives and clear, concise directions visually and vocally, keeping students focused, which creates fewer behavioral issues and allowing for more meaningful instruction time. As a teacher, providing a safe, comfortable classroom environment and maximizing opportunities for student learning and performing are the most important factors in governing student behavior. All students’ interests, strengths, and cultural backgrounds are welcomed and valued.
Music is very personal. After learning the basic technique, they must develop a personal drive and dedication to enhance their abilities in order to express and create their art. I believe in creating a safe and enthusiastic environment for my students to explore. Enabling a student to access that inner expression allows them to grow not only as an instrumentalist, but also as an artist and as an individual. I believe in teaching the person, not just the instrument. I treat my students with respect, creating an atmosphere where they feel supported as they strive to become the best musician they can be. Every student has a different learning style, so it is important to me to tailor instruction to reach each student’s particular balance of visual, aural, verbal, and kinesthetic learning. One of the most important concepts I hope to impart to students is that learning is a process that never ends.