Zac J  
Instruments: Drums, Mallet Percussion, Music
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Swing, Marching Band

Initially, assessment practices are used to determine what the students already know and what they are capable of. When selecting repertoire, it is important that the music is going to challenge the students, but not so difficult that the students will be unsuccessful. Besides difficulty, intellectual design is taken into account when selecting repertoire. It is valuable for students go beyond the basic execution of notes and rhythms. Concepts such as phrasing, balance, ensemble awareness, and musical expression should not be neglected. Once appropriate repertoire is selected, students are regularly assessed on their improvement and growth. I draw a great deal of my philosophy and pedagogy from outside sources and disciplines. Method books from world-renown artists and educators provide inspiration for my lesson plans. I often equate mastering music to mastering a foreign language; fluency resulting in mastery of vocabulary and communication. I also draw inspiration from the Alexander technique; regarding one’s body as part of the instrument, as well as cultivating effective practice and performance routines. Technology can be used to enrich the students’ learning experience. Videos and recordings give the student the opportunity to do self-evaluation with great detail and accuracy, improving their ability to grow into independent musicians. Tuners and metronomes are always on hand to keep tempo and pitch accuracy in check. The physical space and equipment have a crucial impact on the quality of learning that can occur. Students learn best in a clean space so they are able to focus. The sound environment should be dry enough so the students are able to hear themselves, the instructor, and the people they perform with clearly. Students will be most successful with reliable instruments that are capable of producing excellent tone. If students do not move on to professional music careers, their learning experience will still be valuable. Studying music is proven to have benefits for all people. Teamwork, responsibility, preparation, metacognition, self-discipline, and time management are only a few examples of the many life skills that students develop while learning music. Students should take these skills into whatever disciplines they pursue and experience more success.