Julia D  
Instruments: Voice
Styles: Classical, Folk, Musical Theater, Opera, Showtunes, Spirituals, Avant-garde

Firstly, I believe the most effective means of teaching depend on the learning style of the student. In my experience, catering materials to students with whom I work one-on-one has been very effective in engaging those students. For example, I have assigned listening journals, lesson notes that they must take on their recorded lessons, and other writing assignments to those who process best through writing. Those who are auditory have received additional vocal demonstrations so that they can hear the changes they must make. Those who are visual have responded well to diagrams. Ideally, I will assign a multitude of different types of assignments so that each student receives both materials that resonate with them, and those that challenge them. It is extremely important not only to set goals with a student depending on their level and abilities, but also to learn how to speak a student’s language in terms of their learning style and previous experiences. I also firmly believe in encouraging and refining students’ critical thinking skills. Music depends on students being capable of thinking critically. Learning notes and rhythms by rote is neither effective nor compelling. Students absolutely must be able to have opinions and develop their own methods for learning, researching, and performing music. My job is to facilitate such learning in a way that resonates with each individual student. With my younger students, I find it especially important to focus on general musicianship skills rather than a forced, mature sound. I maintain a strong commitment to avoiding harm with these young singers whose voices are not as developed as older students. I also approach all repertoire from a knowledge of healthy vocal technique, and I prefer to include the study of classical repertoire with any student, in addition to other genres in which they are interested. Above all, I believe in mentoring young musicians and cultivating a deep love of music. By encouraging students, rather than demeaning them, I can help foster their desire to become an artist. It is supremely important to recognize the strides students make, which will be different depending on their age, ability, natural talent, and work ethic. Music is, after all, an art, not a science, and every student has a unique perspective to offer the world through their study and performance of music.