Teaching Philosophy

One of my favorite things about teaching is the sense of adventure and discovery that happens when my students begin pieces that are new to them. I love being able to share the knowledge that I have about the harp and its music, both the insights that I have from my own experiences and the treasured artistic traditions passed down by my teachers. 

For each of my students, I craft a personalized map that leads them from their current point on the instrument to realizing their dreams. Each map is a blend of foundational technique, standard classical repertoire, formal and informal performances, as well as unique learning opportunities and pieces suited to the individual student’s interests. In lessons we work together to identify and master the various components of each piece, imagining the narrative it is meant to tell, and honing the student’s approach to the instrument so that their artistry comes across in a graceful and fluid manner that brings the story of the music to life for the audience. 

My students have set and reached far-ranging goals, including being accepted as harp majors at California State University Los Angeles, Cal State University Fullerton, Wesleyan University, and Indiana University. Their accomplishments include placing first in the Julia Louise Herman Edwards Competition (Dallas), being awarded substantial Valeria Finzi Scholarships (Los Angeles), playing in masterclasses at the American Harp Society Summer Institutes (for Heidi Lehwalder and Caroline Lizotte), performing at the National Catholic Educators Association Conference, and passing their ASTA CAP levels with honors and distinction. Many of my students also value sharing the harp with their communities through playing at their places of worship, local libraries, and senior centers. 

Beyond the harp, my purpose as a teacher is to inspire my students to view music as a lifelong dedication to the pursuit of learning and to take up this journey with authenticity and joy.