As an educator, my purpose is to ignite the passion for lifelong learning. Music is a complex and diverse subject that relates to each individual’s life in a multitude of ways, and I hope that students continue to explore this subject even after they leave my classroom. It is my goal for students to leave my class with the skills to be able to make informed, intellectual choices with the music in their lives and have a deep understanding of how music is an integral part of history and culture. Through this lens, students will develop into citizens with a global perspective.
In every setting I teach in, I strive to have my students progress towards musical literacy. I use the Gordon methodology of Music Learning Theory, which aims to teach music literacy in a way similar to how humans become literate in language. I have easily adapted this approach to work with students of all ages and meet the needs of any individual, helping all students to progress towards successful audiation and music reading ability.
I believe there is great importance in creating a classroom culture of respect and support. This allows students to feel comfortable engaging in risk-taking behaviors and growing their musical abilities. Particularly through my work with Chicago Public Schools, I have learned a great deal about the value of building relationships to engage students in taking ownership of their learning.
One of the joys of being a music educator is getting to watch students grow in many ways. A successful music program strives to foster musical knowledge and appreciation, commitment to excellence, and personal growth. I work to have each of my students develop musically, scholastically, and personally. I want for them to take part in a risk-taking environment where they will experience rigorous, high-quality music making with a positive personal experience. Ultimately, I want my students to create meaningful experiences as individuals and as members of a community with skills that will last them throughout their life.