Teaching Philosophy

As a music professor, my goal is to inspire students through a deep commitment to musicianship, efficient practice strategies, and the thoughtful integration of technology. I aim to cultivate not only skilled performers, but also outstanding music educators—individuals who can use their artistic training to engage with larger social issues and contribute to the world with excellence, compassion, and purpose. 

At Tuskegee University, I’ve had the privilege of teaching a diverse student population, many of whom come from backgrounds with limited access to formal music training. This has sharpened my ability to adapt pedagogical approaches to meet students where they are—whether through structured, step-by-step instruction, or by connecting repertoire to students’ cultural experiences. During my time there, I’ve also immersed myself in performing gospel music and repertoire by African American composers. 

As an avid performer, I recognize the discipline required for success in this field. My mentors—Mr. Alvin Chow, Ms. Pavlina Dokovska, and Dr. Scott Smith—instilled in me a high standard for artistry, emphasizing the role of audiation, or deep inner hearing, in expressive performance. Following Theodor Leschetizky’s belief that a musical phrase must be sung before it is played, I incorporate vocalization into my teaching. Exercises such as singing phrases, videotaping performances, and comparing vocal interpretation to piano execution have become regular tools in my studio. 

My work extends into digital education as well. At Tuskegee, I hold certification in online teaching and developed an online Music Appreciation course for the summer term. During the pandemic, I relied heavily on video exchange—students submitted weekly performance videos, and I responded with detailed demonstration clips. This process taught me the value of audio-visual tools, including camera angles and microphone quality, and helped me become more effective at virtual presentation and communication. 

I am deeply committed to diversity and representation in music. I regularly perform and present works by underrepresented composers, and I have given talks at prominent events such as the Gateways Music Festival—featured at both Carnegie Hall and Eastman School of Music—as well as at other HBCUs. I have premiered works such as A Virtual Journey by AAAPI composer Li-Ly Chang and co-presented New Sounds in Chinese Piano Music: An Exciting Direction in Multi-Culturalism at the 2023 MTNA Conference, exploring how Chinese traditional instruments influence contemporary piano compositions. 

Growing up in a family of educators, I witnessed the care and dedication required to guide students not just academically, but personally. These experiences taught me the importance of well-structured lesson planning and individualized instruction, balanced with compassion and cultural awareness. My teaching philosophy is grounded in those lessons: to provide rigorous musical training while supporting each student’s identity, voice, and potential as both artists and citizens of the world.