Teaching Philosophy
My philosophy as an educator and musician is centered on putting the music first. Throughout my career, I’ve has the privilege of learning from a wide range of teachers, from those who were less effective to those who were truly inspiring. Regardless of their teaching styles, each of these experiences has provided me with valuable insights that continue to shape my approach. Over time, these lessons, combined with my own musical journey, have helped me develop a teaching style that prioritizes the music itself —fostering a deep, expressive connection to music while encouraging students to engage with the trombone in a meaningful way.
At the heart of my teaching philosophy is the belief that students should prioritize creating musical phrases, allowing the music to guide their decisions rather than being hindered by technical limitations. To support this goal, I make listening an integral part of each student’s development. While I occasionally assign specific recordings, I also encourage students to explore music of all genres that resonate with them personally. This approach helps cultivate a connection to the music, furthering both technical growth and a more authentic, expressive performance.
I believe that to play the trombone at a high level, developing a strong ear is essential. In every lesson, I emphasize the importance of hearing the note before playing it. I use a variety of techniques to cultivate this skill, tailoring my approach to each student’s needs. One common exercise involves singing a melody, then buzzing it on the mouthpiece, and finally playing it on the trombone. I also extend this practice to all 12 keys, which encourages students to focus on the intervals and the sound of the notes, rather than relying on muscle memory or slide position charts to play specific pitches. This approach helps students internalize the music, fostering a better understanding of both pitch and phrasing.
In conclusion, my teaching philosophy views the trombone as a powerful vehicle for personal expression. By providing students with a solid technical foundation within a supportive, shared community, focusing to cultivate not just skilled trombonists, but well-rounded musicians who can think critically, creatively, and independently. My goal is to equip students with the tools to express their unique musical voices while nurturing a deeper understanding of music as a whole.