Teaching Philosophy

      In teaching, I recognize the unique abilities of each student, shaped by diverse training, hands, body, brain, and hearing capabilities. Recognizing the individualized nature of learning, I strive to personalize piano lessons, addressing specific challenges to create a nurturing and positive environment for musical and emotional growth. (Smith et al. 2014, 38).

      For students with limited music and piano technique training, my focus is on cultivating well-rounded musicianship. This includes developing steady pulses, singing in tune, enhancing multi-voice perception, strengthening fingers and wrists, proficiency in theory, and refining the judgment of sound quality. Conversely, for well-trained and gifted students, I introduce profound and artistic practices, emphasizing written details, cantabile phrasing, and coordination of ear, body movements, fingers, and pedals. 

      Guiding students to discover their unique musical voice is a challenging yet vital aspect of my teaching. Participation in competitions, concerts, and recitals plays a pivotal role in helping students discern their preferences in interpreting music. This exposure allows them to identify strengths and weaknesses, gradually shaping their repertoire choices and interpretative style. 

      Addressing stage fright is crucial, with an emphasis on consistent concentration during performance. Mental practice, beyond muscle-focused practice, helps bridge the gap between physical execution and mental process of music. Thinking through the music without playing aids in overcoming the disconnection between muscle and mind during practice. Relying solely on muscle memory poses the potential risk of losing track of different moments during a performance. 

      Beyond the standard repertoire, my piano studio explores a diverse range of compositions, including works from Black, Indigenous, Asian, Latin, Japanese, and women composers, as well as those influenced by folk, jazz, or electronic genres. This inclusive approach promotes an understanding of historical heritage, cultural taste, and musical trends, fostering respect and empathy for often underrated and marginalized communities.   

       I believe that the purpose of music is to move people. I guide students to discover their emotional and imaginative responses to music. Through an understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, exploration of diverse repertoire, and issues of performing on stage, my student-centered and personalized curriculum aims to develop emotional growth, an open-minded attitude towards diverse music, and confidence of students, essential for a mature musician and a human being. I believe their piano voice would become a sincere expression from their heart.