When I first started teaching, a whole new wonderful world opened in front of me. I started learning more about myself and my own playing. Most importantly though, I learned so much more about my students’ needs and how can they benefit the most from my teaching approach. I encourage all my students to expand their knowledge beyond their field, to ask the right questions.
As a violinist I always aim to lead students into much more than just playing their instrument. In my lessons I engage students to employ such concepts as historical evidence, performance practice, music theory, practicing strategies and music psychology as all these contribute to the students’ future successes. In addition, I ask my students how they would go about working on a particular task. I try to help them think independently about solving their own difficulties and therefore better prepare them for a life of being their own teacher and supporter. One of my goals is to create an atmosphere open to curiosity, one that promotes the students’ continuous involvement and participation naturally and not as a chore.
As a native of Romania, I had the opportunity to study with many wonderful professors that have made an impact on my life and my teaching. These circumstances helped me shape the way I think now. As my teachers did, I also promote equality between my students and strive to support each individual that is open to learning from me regardless of their background, ethnicity or beliefs. Being exposed to diverse methods of teaching both in Europe and the United States, I have been able to observe, gather and combine the best of both worlds. While the system in Romania taught me about discipline and dealing with difficult situations, the methods I observed throughout my studies in a foreign country taught me to think independently, openly express my opinions and easily adapt and work professionally in all circumstances. I endorse teaching through demonstration, not just in private settings but also in the classroom. I get involved and show the students exactly what I’m talking about.
Through my work as a teaching assistant and private violin instructor for many years I have learned to be flexible in approaching each student and to provide appropriate guidance for each individual in order to propel their success. As a teacher, it is my responsibility to instigate curiosity, respond to students’ needs and help them succeed both in the classroom and out in the world. My journey in music has brought me numerous personal rewards and successes. It has made me not just a better musician but also a better person all around, a better member of society which is what I hope for my students as well. I look forward to teaching with excitement, learning, growing, and passing along the knowledge I have accumulated over the years.
“Music is the movement of sound to reach the soul for the education of its virtue.”
