"My #1 goal is for a student to love and appreciate music." If they have fun while learning, they'll want to continue learning more.

I believe the mind, body, and spirit all interconnect and benefit from each other.

*Body | John Medina, a Developmental Molecular Biologist at the University of Washington, noted in his bestselling book, "Brain Rules," if we do 1/2 hr of cardiovascular exercise 3 times a week, our brains become smarter. Progress and results on the piano can be made quicker with exercise. I will be assigning at least a half hour of outdoor playtime or exercise, 3 times a week, that's away from video games, or anything that involves an LCD screen.

*Spirit | If we enjoy what we're learning and playing, then our spirit feels alive.

Students will be encouraged to explore their creativity and imagination during practice and playtime. They will be applauded for taking risks. Most of all, they will be proud of their growth and they will develop confidence.

I firmly believe in having fun while learning! I've worked with kids for years in either day camps, as a camp counselor, or as a youth and Camp Fire USA. Having fun motivates an individual into wanting to do something they enjoy, yet it helps retain what they've learned. Plus, it makes it more enjoyable for me to teach music.

What's the best thing about music? Human expression and organic connection between musician and audience. The spirit sings within all of us. It is such a great gift to know how to perform a song, but also give that sense of joy to an audience. When a student discovers this purpose in their performance, they will express their passion in music. And that's the best gift I'd like to give a student. Whether they want to continue studying or not, a student will be proud of what they've done and discovered about themselves.

That's priceless!