I have always been fascinated by music — by how people are drawn to certain sounds or types of music, by the innate desire somebody has to learn a musical instrument, or by how often I have heard people describe the exact moment they fell in love with music.
Are you able to recall that moment? Perhaps it was discovering a new favorite song on the radio, or going to see your favorite band perform. Maybe it was your own personal experience learning a musical instrument.
For me, that moment was hearing a group of young students performing on the violin when I was three years old. I was captivated by the sound of the violin and became insistent about learning to play.
I finally got the chance to fulfill that dream when I was allowed to choose an elective in 6th grade, which was eight years after my initial wish to learn.
Performing with my high school orchestra in 2011
From there, my love for music grew. I attended a performing arts high school in Las Vegas and continued on to the University of Nevada, Reno where I received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education as “The Most Outstanding Graduate in the College of Liberal Arts” and the “2015 Senior Scholar.”
Teaching music is absolutely my biggest passion.
It is my biggest passion because I believe down to my core in the importance of learning a musical instrument.
Having the ability to express thoughts and feelings through music is remarkable in itself, but the benefits of musical expression go even further than that.
Music has taught me patience and hard work. It has shown me how to connect with others and given me the confidence to perform in front of groups of people. It has inspired me to think critically and to persevere through any challenges life throws my way.
The list goes on and on.
My objective as a teacher is to encourage the growth of each student as a person and a musician by creating a friendly and interactive learning environment.
Students will have the opportunity to learn and build on ear training and listening skills, music reading, music fundamentals, collaboration and communication, and music theory all while having a fun and memorable experience.
It is my goal to ensure that each student leaves a lesson or class able to express “I learned something new today!”
My teaching philosophy is based very much on that of the Suzuki Method, one of the most successful teaching methods that exists for the education of orchestral stringed instruments.
In July of 2015, I received my teacher training from the Los Angeles Suzuki Institute. Along with this, I use the ideas and information gathered from the annual American String Teacher’s Association (ASTA) conference, as well as my own research to expand my proficiency to teach students of all ages and abilities.