To me, music is a way to connect to others from the ears to the heart and to understand other human beings through their emotional world. It is a way of expression and communication that transcends language barriers; it is a universal language that is highly inspirational. It is a creative outlet, and a cathartic way to offer solace during both times of sorrow and joy. The shared experience of experiencing music is something precious that should be fostered by everyone, regardless of age or skill level.
The reason why I chose to teach piano is to share the joy of learning music with others, and cultivate excellence in this form of expression. As someone who was reserved and shy growing up, making music was a way to connect with people and express emotions that words could not capture. Music is also highly therapeutic as music has a healing quality, reducing stress, improving mood, and fostering relaxation, and greatly helped me through my life. I want to show people these great qualities that music is capable of doing, but also how they can cultivate these skills of emotional expression and communication to greatly improve the quality of their lives. Recognizing the beauty in the world starts with stimulating the mind, and there is no better way to do so than to study music.
I started piano at the age of five, and completed the Level 10 RCM certificate program in 2019. I have been playing for eighteen years under the tutelage of Annie New, an RCM certified teacher and examiner. Throughout my years playing piano, I have also performed twice a year at the RCM, and recitals have allowed me to share my passion for music with others. I have also been teaching since 2021 with a music school as well as with my own private practise at my home studio. My future goal is to complete the ARCT Performer’s Diploma, which I am currently working towards, and to apply for the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto to further my studies in music. I am also currently participating in the RCM course for Teaching Elementary Piano to further my skills in teaching and to familiarize myself with the syllabus to prepare students for exams and play with a standard of excellence. I am committed to lifelong learning, not only for the student but as a piano instructor, because I believe that there is always something that we can improve on to become the best version of ourselves.
My teaching goals and pedagogical approaches are the following:
1. BRINGING A POSITIVE ATTITUDE.
The well-being of my students is my top priority. I aim to create a safe environment for students to thrive in their learning and become lifelong learners who are passionate about music. I approach learning enthusiastically and through encouragement, as well as positive reinforcement.
2. EVERY STUDENT IS UNIQUE.
Everyone learns in a different way and therefore I tailor the teaching experience to each individual’s needs, learning styles, goals, strengths and weaknesses. I approach teaching for each student differently: some students might require more off-bench activities or some might want to learn more popular pieces rather than classical. I accommodate for all these differences and the pace at which I teach each student is different to maximize their learning experience.
3. GOOD COMMUNICATION AND FLEXIBILITY.
I am flexible to my students’ and parents’ needs. I listen carefully to make sure everyone is comfortable with their experience and keep an open line of communication to make sure that there is transparency between us. I strive to make learning a memorable and enjoyable experience.
4. HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT.
Piano education is not just about mastering technical skills and interpreting aim to create students that are not only proficient in playing musical pieces but are developed intellectually, emotionally, and creatively. In addition to technique and repertoire, I incorporate elements of music theory, ear training, and music history into my curriculum. Through this approach, students will gain a more well-rounded approach into music as an art form.
5. BUILDLING CONFIDENCE.
I strive to build confidence in my students as they embark on a journey filled with challenges, setbacks, and moments of triumph. I believe in a growth mindset that emphasizes perseverance, build through positive reinforcement, constructive feedback, and goal-setting. I help students strive for excellence by overcoming obstacles and celebrating achievements small and large, developing their sense of fulfillment and confidence in the process.