Teaching Philosophy

As a teacher, I aim to instill a love of music and a love of learning in all of my students. I teach each student to think critically about his/her role as interpreter and provide the technical tools to develop a mature musical voice. I use every tool at my disposal to help budding performers become more sensitive, honest, creative, and expressive musicians and human beings.

I have been teaching for over fifteen years, working with adults, college students, teenagers, and young children at a variety of skill levels. Some are pursuing music professionally; others, avocationally. Music theory, sight-reading, and ear training are an important part of my teaching; improvisation is also encouraged, especially in younger students. 

Flexibility is key, and I have learned that I teach best when I observe and respond to the unique learning style of each student. Kindness is of the utmost importance, while I still push all students to be the best that they can be. I encourage each student to make clear interpretive decisions and commit to them, to ask questions, and do research. I teach my students to listen deeply and react spontaneously, to consider national and historical styles, and to think outside of the box.

I know that a student will only make consistent progress when he or she is practicing well. I spend considerable time discussing practicing strategies, often practicing with my students. I encourage my students to set specific and realistic goals, to listen objectively to themselves, and to be creative and efficient problem-solvers.

A thorough understanding of how to move with ease and efficiency is key to a student’s development as a pianist. Click here to learn more about my physical approach at the piano, which combines tenets of Dorothy Taubman’s teachings and the Alexander Technique.

If you are interested in private lessons, please contact me to schedule a meeting.