My Teaching Philosophy and Curriculum
My teaching philosophy begins with the above understanding of what music does for us. Regardless of desired or achieved level of advancement, there is much to be gained by the study of the cello. Each student has different strengths and different challenges to overcome, and everyone learns in their own way and at their own pace. I approach each student with attention to their learning style, age and level of advancement, and with consideration to his or her overall growth and development on a holistic level. I use research based educational techniques, pedagogical techniques learned from some of the great masters with whom I have studied, and a general approach refined by my experience of 15 years of teaching. Below is a short list of challenges I help my students navigate (on a level appropriate for each student's age and advancement) along their quest for mastery of the cello.
- The cognitive challenges: Deciphering the music, reading, ear training (eurhythmics, intonation), as well as
practice technique, troubleshooting and problem solving.
- The physical challenges: Complete technical instruction in all aspects of cello technique (posture, bowhold,
shifting, vibrato, etc.) and its practical application, the ultimate goal always being to make playing
comfortable, eliminate tension, and maximize efficiency and control.
- The musical challenges: Interpretation, expression, understanding and appreciation of the music.
- The mental challenges: Self awareness, focus and discipline, conquering stage fright.
- The social challenges: Collaboration, understanding and relating to an audience, leading and following.
- The contextual challenges: Understanding the related Physics, Math, History, Culture, Language, Psychology,
Physiology, & more.
- The cognitive challenges: Deciphering the music, reading, ear training (eurhythmics, intonation), as well as
practice technique, troubleshooting and problem solving.
- The physical challenges: Complete technical instruction in all aspects of cello technique (posture, bowhold,
shifting, vibrato, etc.) and its practical application, the ultimate goal always being to make playing
comfortable, eliminate tension, and maximize efficiency and control.
- The musical challenges: Interpretation, expression, understanding and appreciation of the music.
- The mental challenges: Self awareness, focus and discipline, conquering stage fright.
- The social challenges: Collaboration, understanding and relating to an audience, leading and following.
- The contextual challenges: Understanding the related Physics, Math, History, Culture, Language, Psychology,
Physiology, & more.