My Philosophy
basic principles
every student must be taught and learn in their own unique way
learn technique and theory but don’t forget to listen and feel
practice intelligently and play freely
notation and theory are wonderful tools to learn and utilize, but they are not music
above all just relax and have fun, it’s not that serious
neither rigid structure nor total freedom are ideal for personal development and learning; instead a “middle way” of dynamic balance between the two must be traveled
if the net effect of the experience in taking music lessons is a negative one for the student, the teacher’s approach must change, or a different teacher must be sought, or lessons should be abandoned altogether before the student’s interest in or love for music is ruined beyond repair
there are no stupid questions
the teacher should never assume superiority over the student, and in reciprocity the student must have respect for and trust in the teacher’s person as well as their wisdom and experience
neither intellect nor instinct should render one deaf or blind to actual reality
any philosophy, method, theory or dogma claiming to be the one true way is probably garbage
more about teaching…
What are some principles of Beginner’s Mind Music’s teaching philosophy in terms of actual teaching practices?
When introducing new material:
teach by ear, SHOW them physically how to play first, then integrate sheet music and other visual aids
Cultivate playing from physical, aural and conceptual memory
Have the student sing to at least a rudimentary degree
Teach rhythm away from the instrument through dance or simple full-body movement
Show the student how to play on piano to at least a rudimentary degree
Practice sight-reading, at least simple things
Do not shy away from music theory, demonstrate how it’s a way to make music easier to understand, not more complicated
In general:
improvisation should be a natural element of musicianship to a greater or lesser degree
composing at least very simple little things
playing by ear, and ear training in general
basic singing and dancing/rhythmic movement
playing TOGETHER often
playing FOR student often; it’s inspiring
understanding what the student wants
developing a personal report with the student and showing interest in their life beyond music
LISTENING to what they’re learning to play is an essential part of the student’s practice
Our philosophy is NOT:
anti-sheet music
anti-music theory
dogmatic and inflexible
While improvisation is celebrated and encouraged, neither teacher nor student are by no means required to be a master improviser.
If a student is really into in-depth advanced music theory and masterful refinement of technique, that’s great. If a student just wants to play cool riffs and have fun, that’s great too. The student aspiring to virtuosic levels deserves to be challenged and consistently pushed further. Likewise, the student who just gets pleasure from casual playing must be respected as well.
Finally, and this is very important; stress, anxiety, self-doubt, and stagnation are a few of many obstacles to happiness in learning music and in life.
And possibly the greatest enemy of happiness, contentment and curiosity is this; Fear.