Teaching

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Teaching Philosophy

TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

The basis of my teaching approach is to create a non-judgmental environment that fosters mutual respect between the pupil and teacher. The non-judgmental approach allows the student to learn with physical ease and mental acuity because there is no fear about making mistakes. Repetition of tasks that are broken down into small entities, and the knowledge of how to accomplish these tasks, gives the student confidence and a sense of security. This process is extremely important to students who need to undergo rehabilitation of bad habits. As this approach is understood and assimilated, the students have the mental and physical freedom to perform to their potential.

In my teaching I am aware of the following three elements:

Body posture
Students must have a sense of how their body relates to the instrument. This is a continual awareness of the muscular balance between tension and relaxation.

How to practice
In my experience, many students do not know how to practice, yet this is the most crucial link in developing into a pianist. Specific information is given in the lessons to help solve problems. I assist the student implement this information to ensure correct execution. The basis of technical development is the understanding what cannot be done, and then working with the teacher learning how to do. All this is done with non-judgmental repetitions. To this end, I have students playing pieces below their level, at their level, and above their level to keep the challenge and interest.

Musical understanding of style throughout history
In order to become a well-rounded and educated musician, listening, understanding, studying, performing music of all periods is self evident. All of the above does not work if the whole person is not healthy. I try to unlock learning blocks through discussion with students and help them change their outlook. For example, if a student thinks he is not capable of learning, changing, progressing, etc., there is no teacher in the world that can effect a change until the student is able to change his own perception of himself.

To summarize, teaching involves the love and passion of music, the fascination of working with students involved in learning and progressing, and the gratification of watching all facets of a young person's life coming together to become independent musicians and contributing adults.