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Bachelor Degree: College of Charleston
I'm a dedicated music instructor committed to creating a stimulating and inclusive environment for my students. I received a B.A in music with a concentration in Jazz Performance from the College of Charleston in 2021. During my four years studying music in Charleston I became immersed in the local music scene and have performed in a wide variety of settings from jazz ensembles to playing in the pit orchestra for musical theater. I also worked full time as a music teacher at a private school for several years after graduating.
I began teaching private lessons 5 years ago while attending college for music, and have been teaching ever since. Through my education and experience performing I am equipped with a solid foundation in a wide range of genres including jazz, rock, pop, bossa nova, bluegrass, and classical. Throughout my professional experience teaching private lessons and working as a music teacher at a private school, I learned invaluable skills such as curriculum development, lesson planning, classroom management, and student assessment.
My teaching methodology for students who are beginners typically consists of using music that the student is interested in as a template to teach them the fundamentals of music and basic technique for their instrument. After the student has made the connection between music they already love and their instrument, then I can start to challenge them with more difficult repertoire and musical concepts. For intermediate to advanced students I will help them work towards specific goals they have or help them set appropriate goals for themselves. These goals could be anything from getting into music school, to being a professional musician, or even just learning how to jam with other people.
My teaching style is adaptable, but rooted in the methodology that I've developed based on my education and experience. It consists of helping the student learn what they’re interested in as well as what I think they need to reach their musical goals. Whether the student anticipates a career in music or just wants it as a hobby, I can meet them where they're at. I also know the importance of keeping music fun and exciting in order to avoid the feeling of burnout that can so easily sabotage a potential lifetime love of music.
Dean has been an exceptional guitar teacher as I navigate the world of playing as a beginner. His patient and encouraging demeanor created a comfortable learning environment from the get-go. I appreciate how seamlessly he incorporates his extensive knowledge of music theory into our lessons, making complex concepts both accessible and enjoyable. Dean takes a tailored approach to each session, ensuring a solid grasp of fundamentals before progressing. His passion for teaching and infectious enthusiasm for music make every lesson an exciting and rewarding experience.