Philosophy of Music Education
I believe that music lessons should be both fun and educational. Therefore, I try to incorporate as many techniques and styles of music as possible into the lessons. I often ask students what songs they would like to play, and allow them to play popular music alongside of traditional if they desire. I also strive to work with students and parents on developing an acceptable assignment load based on outside factors such as student’s age, temperament, and level of involvement in extracurricular activities. I encourage, but do not require, participation in competitions and public performances. The belief that music is best learned at a young age is also foundational to my philosophy of music education. Learning music is much like learning a foreign language and, just as a child learning a foreign language at a young age is much more likely to be fluent, the same holds true for music. This is why I accept students as young as four. I combine a traditional piano methodology along with my background as a music therapist to give this foundation to young students.
Experience
I began teaching in the Boulder area in August of 1999 and moved my studio to Fort Collins in the fall of 2003. I have been the staff accompanist for Niwot High School as well as for several churches in the Denver area. Besides teaching piano, I am the Outreach Coordinator for Summitview Community Church.
Education and Professional Affiliations
Master of Music in Music Therapy, 1998, Colorado State University
Bachelor of Arts in Piano Performance, 1995, Colorado Christian University
Board Certified Music Therapist 1999-2008
Member of Music Teacher’s National Association since 2000
Member of Local Executive Board, 2004-2006
FCMTA Student Achievement Day Chairperson, 2008, 2009