Teaching Philosophy

As an educator, I am committed to helping students draw out the very best of their artistic and technical capabilities.   I work to create a positive, encouraging environment for all my students with the aim of helping them to find inspiration in the works they play.  As a lifelong student myself, I am always searching for the most effective ways to practice and learn, and have come to rely heavily on modern, scientific research in pedagogy to guide me.  For most of my students, I use a graded repertoire series from the Royal Conservatory of Music to provide a well-rounded, thorough background that covers many genres and time-periods.  My approach to teaching technique is somewhat unique and includes graded drills and studies with a focus on expression and articulation.  Additionally, I encourage my students to engage in chamber music through duets and other ensemble experiences.  Above all, I hope to instill a sense of wonder and reverence for the great works in the repertoire, and hope that my students can gain as much joy and gratification from practicing and performing as I have.

Please contact me through the “Contact” page on my website if you are interested in private lessons. I teach in the mid-Michigan area as well as online through Zoom or Facebook.