BEGINNER FUNDAMENTALS AND THE FIRST YEARS

I have developed a thorough and highly effective method for empowering novice students of all ages, centered around one principal philosophy: to remove the fear and lessen the difficulty of learning new music at home. This is accomplished by building skills and confidence in three distinct areas: reading music, counting rhythm, and physical technique. As each of these foundations strengthen and begin to work in tandem, students will become increasingly self-sufficient when learning music at home. With this self sufficiency students achieve a frequently unattainable sense of comfort and confidence at the instrument. As students mature I will guide them to apply these invaluable skills to bolster their academic and extracurricular activities.

Intermediate and advanced students will continue to improve at reading new music while deciphering more complex rhythms. Stylistic traits of composers throughout history will be surveyed, paving the way for tasteful and creative interpretation. Students will learn how and when to apply a broad palette of fine-motor techniques, from fundamental to advanced gestures, including the use of specific movements throughout the hands, arms, and body. These techniques will reduce tension, facilitate control and sound production, and empower students to unreservedly represent their musical intentions as they improve and mature. With these skills, students will consistently perform their repertoire with comfort, confidence, and creative musical expression.