Teaching Background
I began studying string pedagogy while at the University of Illinois, after having already taught for a number of years. There I learned Paul Rolland's technique for teaching string students. I continued study of teaching with my mentor and renowned pedagogue Roland Vamos. It is his teaching techniques that I still adhere to:
-a strict regimen of technical exercises and scales to free-up music making and build facility.
-a diet of etudes and studies to increase sight-reading ability and reinforce technique.
-a musical piece to learn of expression and art.
For young beginners I use the Suzuki repertoire as a starting point for learning. Games, song singing and motion plays are all a part of my method to infuse joy and a love of music.
Teaching Experience
As a professional musician and string teacher, I am proud of my students' acheivements. Locally, my students have been section leaders in area youth orchestras, and some have soloed with these groups and the KSO. Many have continued their musical training at esteemed institutions like Oberlin, Interlochen, Northwestern, and Eastman. All have developed a sense of themselves through music.