Mission and Methods
Throughout my life I have been touched by the beauty artists bring to our world. After a wonderful opportunity to begin music, piano, and violin lessons in both public school in 4th grade and with private teachers, I was excited to make music a part of my life. I feel it is important for me to inspire children to enrich their lives with the arts.
Because of the process needed to learn this skill, students learn how to learn. They develop the discipline needed to accomplish their goals. Independent thinkers lead us through the 21st Century if they have a passion to learn. Besides the importance of learning the skills and technique to make music on an instrument, music lessons offer so much more to the student and family! A student of any age can learn to successfully express their thoughts and emotions, communicate through sound, and how to work with others to reach a common goal. Yes, there are many articles, “Musical High Notes” that discuss how learning abilities improve because of better brain function through physical manipulation, interpretation of symbols, etc. But there are so many other aspects of life that learning an instrument adds to. Music is fun but it also teaches persistence, patience, and focus.
For children to learn, they need to first of all have a secure, creative environment where community is important; an inspiring studio that creates a climate for developing independent thinkers and providing lively discussions for children of all ages. My music lessons help to develop these skills through a three prong strategy, teacher – student – parent. Yes, you, the parent are extremely important for the success of the student. Helping them by encouragement based on consistent practice within the families schedule is essential. Bringing them to the lessons on time and a parents’ smile or show of glee can make a student enjoy the process so much more and move ahead! I also make an effort to encourage social interaction between students to create their own special community through parties, recitals, suggestions for musical activities together, and friendships that develop.
Parents have asked me how I come to my work with such energy. It is because I love seeing the bright eyes of the students during an “Aha” moment and watching their confidence blossom. I enjoy working with motivated adults too in lessons and in the classroom. I feel priviledged to share their insights. They have often motivated me to explore many different avenues.
Music teaches us ways to problem solve, determination, patience, thinking out of the box, working with people in groups, how to work on projects through a process, resiliency, how to handle pressure, and the joy of completing a task well done. For many the experience of seeing people appreciate their accomplishments through “at home” concerts or my recitals is a tremendous self-esteem builder. Don’t we want all this for our children?
The building blocks taught in my lessons can lead to a professional career, and/or to a life of appreciation of the arts and all genres of music. Students attend concerts in the community that I perform in. This is important for a student to see what possibilities exist and to have an open ear and mind for many kinds of music.
I hope this gives you a feeling for my level of involvement and why your child would benefit from my instruction. Thank you for your time. I look forward to meeting you.