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Bachelor Degree: James Madison University, Master Degree: City University London
James Madison University Wind Symphony
James Madison University Flute Choie
I am passionate about the flute and love sharing that with students. I graduated from James Madison University where I studied with Carol Kniebusch Noe, played four years in the JMU Flute Choir and in the JMU Wind Symphony. Later I went on to get a master's degree in Arts Management at City University in London. I continue to play locally with the Vale Flute Choir as well as the local band Rok. I am classically trained but also love playing indie rock and pop. I really enjoy performing and want to convey that love to my students.
My teaching experience dates back to high school when I taught lessons during my senior year. I had a very solid foundation in the basics of breathing which has served me well. I believe in emphasizing the basics and a regular practice schedule to get the most out of the flute. I like to encourage them to pick out music that they like to go along with the classical music repertoire. This helps keep the student interested. It's so easy to make learning music a drag, and it shouldn't be! The more engaged a student is, the more likely they'll practice!
I use the same books and methods that were taught to me. Trevor Wye's books on Tone and Technique form the foundation of learning the flute. A Rhythm A Day is exactly what it says - a different rhythm to practice that the student may encounter in music they play later. I also use daily breathing exercises to work on breath control - the most important part of playing the flute! After the student has mastered the basics of breath control and basic rhythms, we move on to simple songs and etudes. I tailor each student's journey by their progress.
I love watching students learn and helping them to progress. There is nothing more satisfying than sharing my love for playing music with students! I set realistic goals for each student depending on their starting point. Assessing where each student is with their playing is the most important aspect of teaching. Too hard and the student will get discouraged. Too easy and they will be bored. I encourage them to select at least one piece of music that they would enjoy learning to keep their interest.