I believe in teaching the person first, and then the cello. So, I tailor my teaching by discovering my students’ individual needs and abilities. I encourage students to set high standards for themselves and then give them the tools to succeed.
I work very closely with parents by showing them how to practice creatively with their kids, and supporting them to create a positive learning environment at home.
I teach that loving music can come from hard work, patient problem-solving, and a persistent pursuit of beauty. I want to inspire my students to love the cello as much as I do so that they can share that love with others.
I enthusiastically believe that everyone can learn!
COMMUNITY
A foundational pillar of the Cello Adventures Studio is the community. Students participate in monthly group classes, Studio performances, music festivals and workshops throughout the year. Parents have opportunities to meet other music families, sharing the joys and challenges of their journey.
PARENTS AS PARTNERS
Parents attend lessons with their child and serve as “practice partners” during the week. We work very closely to create an enjoyable learning environment and help your child grow and progress through music. But don’t worry parents, you don’t need to be an expert!
MUSICAL ENVIRONMENT
A rich musical environment at home can significantly influence how smoothly and joyfully a student progresses. Music is just another language and listening to music every day is important, especially listening to pieces in their repertoire so the music becomes familiar. By listening to music everyday, the student develops a deep appreciation for music, understands its nuances, learns faster, and, perhaps most importantly, cultivate a lifelong love for music.
HIGH STANDARDS
To maintain a high standard in my studio, parents, students, and I work as a team to establish a foundational technique of balanced posture, beautiful sound, and accurate rhythm and intonation. We work closely to construct a framework of how to practice efficiently and effectively, and instill habits of memorisation and a discerning ear. With frequent group collaborations and performances, we stimulate a love for music and a curiosity for different musical genres.
REVIEW & REPETITION
Constant repetition is essential in learning to play an instrument. Music students do not learn a piece of music and then discard it. They add it to their vocabulary (repertoire), gradually using it in new and more sophisticated ways. Review and repetition are essencial aspects of learning and are incorporated in weekly lessons, group classes and performances.
JOY
The student’s effort to learn should be met with sincere praise and encouragement. Each student learns at his/her own rate, building on small steps so that each one can be mastered confidently. Students are also encouraged to support each other’s efforts through group playing and concerts, fostering an attitude of generosity and cooperation. Music is joy!