TEACHING PHILOSOPHY

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I believe first and foremost that learning is hard work, and learning music is no different. Though many of my students would describe me as quirky and funny, I do not strive to be a "fun" teacher who tries to keep students constantly entertained. Students of mine are expected to work hard and through their labors music becomes more enjoyable to play, because it is achieved through accomplishment and not instant gratification.

I also believe that the teacher should also be the lifelong student. I am never satisfied with just doing things one way and sticking to it. I am always refining my teaching techniques, working out new exercises, and learning more about alternate pedagogical techniques on the instruments I teach. I employ in my teaching example, history, anecdote, creativity, unconventional mental exercises and lots of humor as well as employing the latest technology for learning purposes and adjust my teaching for different learning styles, personalities and temperaments.