I have two different versions to describe my classes and my teaching philosophy; one is for the adults and one is for the kids.

Here's the grown-up version (if you're a kid, scroll down):

My Teaching Philosophy

I believe that effective teaching assumes that long-term, hard, persistent effort to achieve comes from the heart, not the head. I always try to encourage and support my students’ efforts while challenging them to do their very best. I do this by promoting a climate of caring and trust, helping them set challenging but achievable goals. I set clear expectations and reasonable goals for all learners but do not sacrifice self-efficacy or self-esteem for achievement. My assessments of learning consider individual growth as well as achievement.

Piano Instruction

The study of piano involves much more than learning the mechanics of playing the keys. Emphasis is placed on theoretical concepts in music. Music theory breaks music down into its elements and identifies rules and patterns. It provides a framework for considering how music is put together and why music sounds the ways it does. To this end, I encourage each student to study pieces that are personally relevant to them and that will motivate them to grasp the underlying theoretical concepts.

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Here's the kid's version (if you're a grown-up, scroll up):

First of all, this piano playing stuff has to be fun. If it weren't, I wouldn't be doing it. Maybe you want to play something by Mozart or maybe Taylor Swift or some new video game music. We can do that, but first you have to know what I expect so here goes...

• I'll never be angry if you ask a question.

• I'll never be angry if you make a mistake.

• I'll be upset only if you don't try. If you won't try, I can't teach you.

• If you don't understand, it's my fault, not yours.

• It's my job to teach you in a way you understand.

• Attempting is often more important than succeeding.

I believe that for me to teach you, I have to know that you are willing to put your whole heart into making music and playing the piano. This isn't about being musically gifted or just being born with the ability to play.

I will always be your biggest fan but also your most honest critic. I will challenge you to do more and step up to the challenge. I only expect you to try because that's the only way I can teach you.

And yes, you have to practice…how do you think Taylor Swift, Alicia Keyes, Nora Jones, Bruce Springsteen and even Mozart got to be so good? ; - )