Culture and Climate
My studio offers a warm, calm environment. A student, under no circumstance, shall ever be scolded, ridiculed, or humiliated for whatever reason, to include discrimination of race, religion, sexual preference, etc. If I feel that a student is lacking motivation, such matters will be discussed with parents, or individually in private for my adult students. Parents are also encouraged to ask questions; however, as a courtesy of intervening with lesson times of other students, I would prefer being contacted via telephone or e-mail. Nonetheless, you also have the option of scheduling an appointment so that we may discuss your concerns in person.
You will come to find that I enjoy humor, and I ask many questions about you, for I am interested in establishing a healthy relationship. Please feel free to share your humor, yet let us keep it respectful. If at any time I feel the need to terminate lessons with a student, I shall do so at my own discretion. I may provide a letter of explanation for such measures per your request.
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Practices and Performances
The student shall be introduced to different methods and materials to develop his/her musicality. Such methods involve technique, sight-reading, ear training, basic theory, and music history aspects to include basic explanation of different time period repertoire, performance practices, diction (for singers), and musical styles. Singers will also be taught how to take proper care of their delicate instrument. Different materials will be used for each student, depending on their level. The cost of books is the responsibility of the parent and/or student; however you will come to find that the prices are very affordable. Due to the higher cost of books for singers, copies of repertoire are offered.
Once a year, in the summer, students are encouraged to participate in recitals and performances. This allows them to, not only demonstrate to family and friends what they have learned throughout the year, but it also helps them view and feel their own growth and accomplishments. The recitals will consist of one piece per pianist and one piece per singer, and one per trumpeters (2 pieces each if there are not enough performers). Most genres are encouraged and will mainly be selected from the Classical, Musical Theatre, Jazz, and Pop genres/styles WITH my approval. However, all students with pending auditions will perform a Classical piece. If there are enough students in the studio, a small performance of choral or chamber music can and will be arranged.
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Proper etiquette is expected at all times, meaning we shall applaud and encourage ALL students, regardless of how they performed. I do not expect perfection during these seminars and recitals, all I ask is effort. Remember that everyone is at different levels from beginner to advanced. But, performing in front of others not only prepares one as a musician, but it prepares the individual for future situations of public talks, future careers, and so on. Thus, I strictly adhere to proper performance etiquette, which will be further discussed when the time frame approaches.
In an effort to help students overcome the fear or nerves of performing, students will be encouraged to attend and participate in studio seminars that will be offered a few weeks before our recital, and most likely, during the weekends. Furthermore, selected students also participate in masterclasses with highly experienced and academically trained professors and performers to further assist in your musical development.
Conclusion
​Growing as a musician is a team effort between student and teacher. Let us take advantage of the time we have and work as a team so that we can develop that special gift that lies within you and ready to reveal itself.
