In my approach to teaching, I focus on four key values: Compassion, Intention, Joy and Growth.

Compassion

Being a human in our world is challenging. Being a child — especially an adolescent or teen — is even more difficult. I do my best to approach my students where they are on any given day. I try to understand all the pressures they are under with kindness and caring, while maintaining high expectations and setting them up for success. 

Intention

I teach with intention, and teach students to practice and learn with intention. Not just going through the motions, but thoughtfully and mindfully figuring out what needs work, and how best to get that work done efficiently and effectively. 

Growth

Over 25+ years of teaching I have certainly grown as a person, a musician, and a teacher. I have learned so much from my students! I have also seen each child grow in so many different and amazing ways. Violin/viola/music is a wonderful vehicle to grow as a person. To be curious about what is possible, and figure out how to master what seems impossible. To explore and experiment with different ways and methods to accomplish goals. To learn what is possible with daily attention and action. To learn about self. 

Joy

Music is beautiful. It’s fun. It brings people together. It helps us celebrate and rejoice, and it helps us mourn and grieve. Music is an integral part of life. To study it, to know what goes into creating it, and to be able to create it yourself, makes it that much more meaningful and powerful.