PHILOSOPHY OF TEACHING

It is all about the process. Any student has the ability to succeed as a musician, whether it be a simple musical assignment, keeping your feet in time on the marching field, leading your own big band, or winning an orchestral job with a major symphony. 

My philosophy of teaching is; first, approaching the student’s development in an optimistic manner; therefore, the goal of reaching great musicianship has positivity painted all over its canvas. Secondly, I put fundamental development near the top of my music education hierarchy. It is important to understand “how to” appropriately gain efficacy on one’s instrument and “why” we place such an emphasis on building a strong foundation.  After learning how the basic fundamentals operate, we must then apply those basics in the music technically, emotionally, and with great efficiency. Finally, it is important to have patience, not only for yourself, but also with the student. Having patience during such a tedious process is crucial to both the teacher’s and student’s success. 

 As educators, we have to try to show the resourcefulness, adapt­ability, and seriousness necessary to build great musicians and great people. Our ability to communicate with students and colleagues alike, coupled with a devotion to the musical development of the students, will create a positive learning environment.