I teach music the way I think about music. Music is sequential, experimental, and essential to our mental and emotional well-being. I understand music as temporally measured sonic art with a beginning and end point, and yet our experience within it is often transcendent from our usual relationship with time. I believe learning occurs when our physiology and emotional being is calm and balanced, and we can apply our innate curiosity, intelligence and motivation to seek greater understanding. This occurs best in a play-based environment that feels relaxed, safe and comfortable.

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My approach to classroom teaching is to lead with prepared activities that are designed to foster group work as well as inspire personal expression. I also remain willing and open to change paths according to the needs of the individual. Like a good improviser who maintains presence, flexibility and awareness, I strive to practice that same spontaneity within the classroom in order to cultivate creative experiences, not just for the students but also for myself.

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My teaching is inspired and informed by the Orff Schulwerk approach, with the goal of bringing out the innate musicality of each person by using games, chant, song, movement, folk dance, and drama, as well as learning and creating pieces of music using Orff barred instruments specially designed for the beginner musician. 

 

My approach to teaching individuals is with flexibility and compassion, and act as coach and guide, assisting my students to find their pathways toward attaining their musical goals. My piano students range from ages 5 to 65.

I offer in-person lessons as well as lessons on Zoom.

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