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Bachelor of Arts in Music and Psychology
Shirley Mae Evans Orchestra Scholar at Lyons Township High School, 2018
Instrumental Strings Scholar at Seattle University, 2018
I am a passionate and driven music performer and educator that has dedicated my life thus far to improving as a musician. I studied music throughout high school and am currently studying at Seattle University to get BA in the hopes of studying music therapy in the future. I performed with the Chicago Philharmonic Orchestra, the Lyons Township High School Orchestra (including a tour of Spain), and the Seattle University Chamber Program currently. I have played the cello for 13 years, guitar for 8, electric bass for 3, and piano for 2. I also sing and write music.
I have experience teaching cello freelance during my high school years in my hometown and had several students aged 5-12. I also have experience substitute teaching at Meter Music School in Seattle where I teach cello, guitar, and piano to younger children. I also have informal experience teaching guitar and piano to special needs children. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. If a student isn't having fun in their lessons, then I'm not doing my job! My students are encouraged to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own original material, so they can feel good about their accomplishments and stay motivated to learn. I'm always looking to bring on new students of all ages!
For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, scales, and basic music theory. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults and continuing students, I try to find out what the student is interested in and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. I am open to teaching all different levels and genres.
I like to keep the focus of lessons on the development of artistry and fun of the music, but am stern when it comes to encouraging students to practice and reach their full potential. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs..