My first priority as a teacher is to make each student feel safe, respected, and seen. Everything else comes after that. The next priority is to make music a fun and joyful experience, which can look different for each person. My students play all styles of music- classical, pop, fiddle, video game music, and their own compositions. Some of my students invent games that involve movement, singing, and playing as part of their lessons. I have a flexible teaching style that caters to what is going to interest and inspire each student; I believe that you can learn to play an instrument through all kinds of music and activities.

After the basics of feeling secure and enjoying music, my next priority is setting up each student with physical habits that are going to prevent injuries should they continue playing longer term. I check in regularly with each of my students, particularly younger players who are still growing, to make sure they’re not creating unnecessary tension and to help them find playing setups (shoulder rest or sponge, chinrest, instrument angles, etc.) that work for their bodies and playing styles. More advanced techniques, reading music, musical expression- all of that stems from the foundations of respect, enjoyment, and physical wellbeing.