Philosophy of Music Education

When I was a very young child, my parents took me to see a group called the Marimba Ponies. This group of child percussionists based in Japan excited and stimulated me so greatly, my parents nearly signed me up. Little did they know that music would indeed take over my life, and become the one force that inspires me every day.

Every country, every culture around the world has its own music that expresses what spoken language simply cannot convey. The power, the emotion, the sincerity of music touches the soul and molds our view of the world. Through music, we can learn more deeply about our world, from our own local culture to cultures on the other side of the globe.

As a music educator, I wish to bring my love of music in all its facets to future generations of music lovers. When students have music in their lives, they learn to appreciate something greater than themselves. They learn to work as a team with their classmates as they perform songs, dances, and instrumental pieces. Music can encourage the introverted student to participate and the excitable student to channel his energy productively. Students who study music will learn about times and places that are different from their own experiences, and thus gain respect for all the world's people.

I believe a direct connection with music is vital to a successful music program. Whether students are moving to music to emphasize a specific musical topic, or the students are learning a song that expands on an outside lesson, students will get the most out of music class if the activities in music connect directly to the students' experience. I constantly work to ensure these connections are present in my lessons.

In my classroom and in my studio, I create a safe, nurturing place where students can come together and confidently express themselves. I persistently strive to create an enjoyable, yet supportive environment in my music room. All students should have the opportunity to feel the spark of something great that I felt when I first experienced music as a young child, so they too can carry the inspiration of music with them throughout their lives.