Information for Parents and Teaching Philosophy
I teach all students regardless of age or ability level using Suzuki principles. Most students will use the Suzuki literature. Supplemental pieces, studies, scales and exercises are added on an individual basis.
Webcam Lessons for Elementary, Middle and High School Students
Webcam lessons are offered to public and private schools and homeschool associations as a courtesy. The school must set up an institutional account and provide a purchase order number for billing. Electronic payments are encouraged.
Once an account has been established, lessons will originate at the school, and be conducted in accordance with the school district's internet usage policies, as well as my studio policy on web security.
Teaching Philosophy and Expectations
For me, and many Suzuki teachers, the label "Suzuki" means more than simply picking up the repertoire books at a local music store. Tens of thousands of us hold active membership in the Suzuki Association of the Americas and local associations. We have an intimate working knowledge of Suzuki philosophy, repertoire and teaching points. We participate in professional development. We also adhere to the SAA's Code of Ethics. However, Talent Education on its deepest level is a spirit, a way of life devoted to action, rooted in the core belief that Every Child Can. It is a trusting, loving, positive, goal-oriented partnership that transcends age, race, creed, economic status, gender or orientation. Talent Education is Equal Opportunity Education in its purest form.
In my understanding of the Talent Education philosophy, every student has the same potential to do whatever they set their mind to. We all come from different places, grow up in different homes, and are exposed to different education systems, values and mores, but the one thing that we all have in common is the inborn raw ability to do any task, whether simple or complex. Talent is. It exists in every person. It's not something that gets doled out proportionally, or a few specially-selected really smart people get it all and the rest of us are left to fight over the scraps. Talent becomes what you choose to do with it. It can be wasted, or it can be developed to a very high level. Talent is what we use to make the lives of other people better. Excellence means not only playing beautifully but also having a beautiful heart, a noble yet humble spirit, being a better person. The violin is the tool we use to learn balance, focus and sensitivity.
Environment is the crucial factor in developing talent. Age doesn't matter. Neither does previous musical experience. Adults may take longer to get comfortable with some of the finer points of playing, but it's all relative to one's environment. We all want what is best for ourselves, our kids and our families. In the grand scheme of learning -- whether Suzuki-style or not -- the environment is what is important: a place where we are loved and comfortable, joyously and unconditionally accepted for who we are, and where the pursuit of excellence of heart and violin playing is emphasized and expected.
It is my opinion that music lessons are perhaps the most cost-effective way to help students reach their fullest potential and become better humans. The process of learning to play can be difficult and frustrating for students whose environment does not truly nurture their learning, or those who were taught badly. Yes, retraining can take a while, but it's sure a lot cheaper than therapy.
I expect commitment, effort, progress, results and involvement. I expect you to play the violin to the best of your ability. I expect you to become a better person. So what are you waiting for? You can do this. Make it happen.