Music Educator

Teaching Philosophy

I believe that the most important responsibility teachers have is to prepare their students to thrive in a world filled with unexpected possibilities. Whether a seasoned professional, emerging artist, advanced student or novice, I can assist you in reaching your potential as a musician and stage performer.

The pragmatic ideal is at the core of my teaching; each student is evaluated and an individual program is created, focusing on the needs of the student. Technique by definition can be taught and regardless of genre, every student can improve and gain greater self-confidence through learning new skills. I strive to create a holistic environment, arming my students with the tools that they will need to excel and the understanding of how to use those tools; this allows them to transcend technique and be truly creative. A student is therefore prepared to succeed through attention to the details of preparation, research and execution. I have always been committed to performing locally and regionally, thus giving my students the opportunity to observe the culmination of what they are taught in the studio and the classroom.

In addition to teaching a variety of traditional music courses including music appreciation, applied voice, music theory, music history, diction for singers and song literature, I have been successful serving as conductor for vocal and instrumental ensembles and as director/coach for opera and musical theater productions.

I consider myself to be a life-long learner, incorporating what I learn into my classroom teaching. I have participated in master classes, seminars and workshops and continually seek out opportunities to learn new skills, techniques and approaches to teaching, learning and performing.