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Minor, Southern Illinois Universeity Music Theory/Composition
I have a strong interest in introducing young students to music and other outlets they might not have known before. I spent 5 years in Southern Illinois University studying music theory and composition, and taught introductory lessons along the way. I have also been writing my own original works and arrangements for over 9 years. I also spent a short while learning piano, guitar, and violin, and I wholeheartedly enjoyed the experience and the skills I picked up from it. I played in the Southern Illinois Symphony Orchestra during my time in university.
I began teaching just prior to starting college, and it is where my want to teach younger students began. I felt my initial growth as a musician was slow because I couldn't find that spark that made me want to take music to the next level. Now that I have it, I hope I can help others find their way. I think modern music gets a bad rep, especially among us classically-trained professionals! There is merit to every kind of music out there, and I think knowing that from the get-go makes being a musician a much more fulfilling endeavor.
With beginner Cello, the first major learning curve is being able to get into position: Posture, Cello placement, left hand, bow hold, etc. This is probably the most rote work early on, as the student learns scales and basic techniques. Once the student shows a good demonstration of the basics, then the lessons proper begin. I like to have 3 'projects' at a time; 2 simple pieces aimed at learning a certain technique, and a larger piece catered to the student's interests. I like to do an even mix of classical and pop music to make concepts more accessible.
I personally feel that anyone can learn how to play and develop an understanding and love of music. The key to it is finding that spark, or that thing that serves as the roots from which your musical knowledge grows. It can be a single piece, and genre of music, or even a rock band. I like to try finding what clicks with a student, and work that into as many lessons as possible. Being able to take what you love and channel it through your own music is a feeling that can't be matched, at any skill level.