Why should you play the piano? Here are some of my thoughts about the entire process and the importance of music in our lives.
There is something very spiritual about learning to express yourself in music, and learning to do this now is the best time you have to explore. While working on technic, skills and repertoire is critical too, I find the students who are most successful are also on a lifelong journey with music and its role with themselves.
As a teacher, I am very interested in developing a holistic approach for a student’s understanding of themselves, and the important role that music can play in communicating and expressing one’s self to others. Learning the piano is a great way to learn about discipline- how to practise, study, and to do these things consistently. My experience teaching has been that among the most meaningful experiences a student can have is to express themselves to others through playing the piano and listening to music. To do this, there is a process of daily practising, of learning to listen, and of being more aware of each thing you do as a player.
As a teacher of piano, as a coach of singers, and as a choral conductor, I am always ultimately searching for relaxation in playing, intellectual and musical challenges, and finding that special piece of music which can help the student grow, learn and thrill in the joy of making music and being creative. Learning about styles, composers, and how composers and music fit into the societies they were written in, as well as how they reflect today- are also really important to creating grounded, beautiful music.
At the same time as I strive for the artistic and creative, there is also a huge importance in practical technical training. I teach a solid technical foundation to enable students to accomplish their musical goals, I can prepare students for exam programs (such as the Royal Conservatory of Music), festival classes, and competitions, and beyond. And yes, I still teach remotely as well- using any medium the student would like. I have a piano studio in Downtown Vancouver, and I also teach at the VSO School of Music.
My students have achieved top marks in examinations, and have gone on to University Studies, as well as programs in Collaborative Arts, summer programs, and special studies at the highest levels.
Have questions? Send me an email or give me a call.
