Philosophy of Teaching

“The primary purpose of education is not to create a workforce; it is to improve the quality of life for individuals and for society.” This statement from the 2007 Centennial Declaration of The National Association of Music Education is the foundation of my teaching philosophy. Students require nurturing and guidance, and teachers are highly influential in their students’ lives. The teacher should steward well the responsibility of shaping developing minds. Every student has the ability to learn, and the teacher should inspire a love for learning that will lead to a lifelong journey of growth for the student.  

Value of Music Education  

Music is significant to human life. Cultures and people groups all around the world, past and present, make and enjoy music in unique styles. Through music, individuals construct their identity and communities cultivate unity. Music is valuable in numerous ways, and it is used to communicate stories and to create community. Music can be used to calm and to heal. Music can also bring joy and fulfillment. Although music cannot fully satisfy nor give true peace, it is a gift that promotes a full and colorful life. Music education is vital to equip students holistically to flourish as members of society.

Inspiring musical enjoyment, encouraging intrinsic motivation, and guiding students to develop self-reflective skills are student-centered approaches that influence my teaching. Constructivist and cognitivist learning approaches both emphasize the role of the educator in helping the student recognize their responsibility in their own learning. Independence and ownership are vital for learning. My goal of teaching is to equip students to continue to pursue music, whether professionally or casually, for personal enjoyment and as a means of contributing to their community.

Music education improves the quality of life of students as individuals and as members of society. The social activities that students engage in as they make music are opportunities for them to learn to interact with others and to collaborate with others towards a common goal. These skills are essential for a fulfilling life in community. Students differ in their music-making skills and inclination for music. The music educator’s goal should be to equip students to enjoy music and to make music that brings value to those around them. Music educators teach through example by demonstrating a love for music and by adding value to their students’ lives through music.