The Teacher's Role
As an educator, it is important to see the value music has for students of all ages, and to help them connect to it and express through it on their own terms. Beyond the fun challenges, games and resources, the "Role of the Teacher" lies at the heart of our teaching style and pedagogical philosophies.
Our Teaching Philosophies
Read below for four key elements valued at Creative Expressions Music Academy, which begin with instilling a love for music in each child, customizing the individual approach to help each child succeed, improving their musicianship, and finally engaging their brain in unique and exciting ways.
A Love for Music
Every life is touched by music. When a teacher instills a love for music in the hearts of their students, music becomes a gift that they may cherish, nurture and share with others. Our teaching philosophy centers around Expression and Creativity, so that as students can find enjoyment in each and every lesson.
Philosophy in Action
The focus of the summer was for students to love piano. Alex was very excited to play his whole lesson out in the sunshine for the neighbours to enjoy!
Watch Alex performing one of his favourite pieces: "School Carnival" in a memorable outdoor piano lesson in Corey's backyard!
Customizing our Approach
Whether their goal is to play a favourite song, take examinations for high school credits, learn to improvise, compose music of their own, perform publicly on the grand stage, or play for personal enrichment... Rather than conforming to one standard program, we encourage students to celebrate their identity through their music! We work hard to arrange their favourite pieces and stick to their goals, and teach kids how to use their music to feel better.
Philosophy in Action
Mitch was very excited to put his own spin on the actions for this song, and his personality and humour shone through.
Watch Mitch as he creates his own unique actions to work on his rhythms and distinguish between his half notes and quarter notes!
Improving their Musicianship
Playing an instrument involves a large number of skills that are demanded simultaneously. For one student, coordination may be an issue, and for another, the issue might be staying in time. We watch carefully and assist students in achieving their musical goals in ways that are not detrimental to their body, while framing everything we do as a lot of fun.
Philosophy in Action
Khloe and Kacey are sisters who love to duet together! They have discovered a whole new world of possibilities within vocal training, working with Teacher Gemma on pitch, projection and reaching those high notes. What better song to sing at our upcoming recital than ‘A Whole New World’ from Aladdin?
Engaging Their Minds
The study of music requires discipline and hard work, and this process engages the musicians' brain. Music lessons boost beneficial, transferable skills such as with language development, reading comprehension, creativity, time-management, pattern-recognition, concentration, patience, and self-esteem! The best thing about it is... sometimes they don't even realize it's happening!
Philosophy in Action
This student has been in lessons for only a couple of months, but is already beginning to explore all the sounds on the piano and make their own decisions. Watch as this student takes one of their favourite pieces "Racoon's Lullaby", and improvises a dream at the end of the piece!