Teaching Philosophy

This is me, playing "Fur Elise" as a child.   I have always loved the piano, and my goal  as a teacher is to share this love with my students: to inspire and encourage them. It's a gift that lasts a lifetime! 

Above all, I hope the student will love music and enjoy playing the piano.  This love of music can last a lifetime and be an important emotional outlet and means of self-expression. Piano lessons should be fun, creative, challenging, supportive and self-esteem building.  My emphasis is on playing musically, and thoroughly understanding the elements of music, not on competing.

In teaching children, I keep in mind the child’s age and stage of development and plan lessons accordingly.  Lessons for young children include frequent getting up from the piano and playing games or drumming.   I supplement material from the lesson books and classical music with additional repertoire to suit the needs and tastes of each child.  Folk songs, popular music and Christmas carols are favorites of the children and increase their enjoyment of piano playing.  

In addition, children are encouraged to improvise, play by ear and to make up their own compositions, especially if they enjoy doing this. Depending on the schedule, it may be possible for your child to play duets or share some theory games with another student and this is always great fun!

Music is meant to be shared!

I encourage the social element of music making by holding several  “piano parties” a year. where your child will have a chance to perform in a fun and supportive and informal environment. Preparing pieces for the piano party motivates the students and gives them a goal to work towards.  I try to keep these as fun and low key as possible.

 We begin by sharing some musical activities (i.e. exploring percussion instruments, singing together, playing theory games) and end with listening to the children play and celebrating their accomplishments.  We enjoy potluck refreshments.

Students may have other performance opportunities as well--such as the annual Chapel Hill Music Teacher's Association Playathon or Spring Festival.