My philosophy of teaching is embodied in the objectives of providing students with the skills to become flutists, artists, and musical citizens. I am committed to sharing my musical lineage, experiences, and knowledge with talented flutists of all ages, preparing them for successful and rewarding lives with music.
In nurturing the student flutist, our primary focus becomes the process of building a unique concept of tone. Based on the student’s tonal concept, we develop a clear and singing sound with a richly diverse palette colors. My approach to teaching centers on self-awareness of the physical aspects of achieving one’s unique tonal concept, and it is founded upon a sound pedagogical lineage that includes Schocker, Lloyd, Rampal, Baker, Kincaid, Barrère, Gaubert, Moyse, Taffanel, and Altés.
The exploration of one’s unique voice in music emerges from self-awareness of the physical and emotional reactions we have to various passages of music. Understanding how music affects us, and then expressing those reactions through music - based on knowledge of historical and theoretical contexts - is the pathway to achieving a unique musical voice.
Students in my studio develop an understanding of the intersections of music and citizenship. I instill an appreciation of music as a medium through which students become responsible citizens by fostering collaborative prowess and leadership skills, while guiding them to understand the practice of music as a centering process that builds self-esteem. Students also learn the impact of music on healing.