Teaching Philosophy
Every student is different. From the way their body is shaped, the way they approach the oboe, and their attitude. My role as a teacher is to adapt and change with each unique person. What works for one student may not work for another. Each lesson is a new adventure, with new goals and exciting creative ways to accomplish those goals. Within this continuously changing and evolving way of teaching there are certain fundamental approaches that I maintain throughout each lesson: communication, individualized goals, leading by example, instilling confidence, and giving back to the community of oboists. Through maintaining these pillars I have cultivated a successful way to help students grow in a healthy and supportive environment.
Communication. Communication is the foundation of my teaching. With open communication, students feel free to disagree and question the teacher, which greatly benefits the students and enhances their education. Communication also helps an educator realize whether there is adequate understanding or if further explanation is needed. I encourage my students to identify an additional supportive person they may use as a sounding board or an ear when needed. With this added level of support, students tend to be more successful and willing to reach out when they are struggling.
Individualized Goals. Each student is an individual; therefore, I create individual and constantly evolving lesson plans to fit students’ needs. Different learners demand different teaching approaches. I strive to nurture each student’s unique voice by constantly evaluating the way I teach, ensuring that I am optimally meeting each student. I expect each student to demonstrate growth and celebrate their progress along their collegiate journey.
Leading by Example. Many features of successful professionals cannot be taught. I believe through my shared experience and passion for creating, teaching, and growth, I can show my students the varied directions their careers may take. I demonstrate my commitment to my career through non-profit management, grant writing, running an LLC, and creating new and exciting projects beyond teaching; this demonstrates and normalizes the multitude of directions that a professional’s career may take, helping to develop curiosity about their many career path possibilities.
Confidence. I work to cultivate confidence with each student I teach. Leaning on colleagues and classmates is imperative for success. No one person can do anything alone; collaboration, connections, and networking are vital skills for success in any career. In my classroom there is an expectation of positivity; the class will always lift each student even through critiques. There is no place for negative self-talk.
Giving back to the Community. Classes are led not only by me but also by individual students within the class whether engaging in solo or team teaching. An inclusive community is paramount for an equitable learning environment; therefore I foster an attitude of engagement at every level of mastery. Students will give to the community through collaborations with businesses and organizations. This aspect of class makes everyone feel good and connects the community.
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