Reach out today and sign up for a free trial lesson!

Teaching Philosophy

I believe that learning music can be one of life's most uniquely fulfilling experiences. That is why I became a piano teacher. In my piano studio, I think that students learn to the greatest extent when they are genuinely interested and excited about lessons. Whether you are a beginner, an advanced student seeking guidance, or somewhere in between, I look forward to exploring music together!

     I am very passionate about music and aim to foster this same enthusiasm in my students. Because students come to piano lessons with a variety of intentions, backgrounds, and preferred learning styles, it is important to shape curriculums individually. While some students would like to play in competitions and apply to music schools, others simply want to learn music for fun and be exposed to creative outlets.

     The skills acquired in piano lessons are transferable in all aspects of life. Patience, communication skills, goal setting, critical thinking, self-regulation, and creative development are all facilitated in the lesson environment. With the refinement of these newly gained skills, students grow into well rounded individuals and further their autonomy through the exploration of music.

     In reflecting on my own piano education, I feel grateful for the inspiring piano instructors who mentored me throughout my development. Learning music at a young age not only can open the door to creative expression and exploration of the arts, but also inspire development in many other aspects of the student’s life.

As a piano teacher and music enthusiast, I strongly believe that anyone, regardless of circumstances, is deserving and able to participate in music education. In my piano studio, I intentionally work to create an inclusive and welcoming environment which facilitates a growing passion of music in my students. By tailoring curriculums individually for each student, I am able to help students set and achieve goals, and help students learn to play in a variety of styles. 

One of my primary research interests is the synthesis of Jazz and Classical piano pedagogy in elementary through intermediate students. Although Jazz pedagogy is often thought of as an intermediate to advanced skill, I have found success in adapting the curriculum so that beginning students can start learning about jazz and the differing prioritizations that it requires to help prepare all students for playing piano in a variety of genres. By exposing students to differing styles, students are more apt to find a passion in which I can continue to cultivate.

Another research interest is in the cultivation of an inclusive piano studio. This interest stems from the desire to gain familiarity and skills in providing access to piano education to students with special needs. In my time at the University of Oklahoma, I worked with the Special Education department alongside the Piano Pedagogy department to learn how to provide inclusive pedagogy. I learned about curricular frameworks, such as the Universal Design for Learning, and have been able to implement many of the concepts in my teaching to promote inclusivity and help create robust curriculums for all students. My primary goals as a piano teacher are to open access to piano education to a wider demographic and to pass on my passion for piano, and music in general, to those I interact with.

Regardless of the students’ goals, I tailor curriculums and teaching styles individually to help promote student enjoyment while providing high-quality piano education. For each student, I include vast array of repertoire choices, opportunities for performance practice, theory lessons, music history, sight reading exercises, improvisation and more. With a wide range of skills acquired through pedagogically sound private lessons, students gain the opportunity to enjoy making music for a lifetime.