I believe in a well-rounded and proper music education for all of my students. The student will develop skills such as fluency in reading musical notation, knowledge of music theory, proper piano technique, and developing the ear. I believe these fundamental skills are all important to help us with our main goal - making music. Beautifully, expressively, and creatively. During lessons, when working on any piece, I offer multiple suggestions on how to play a passage of music more expressively or musically, and why I have chosen to express it that way. It may be to match a backstory I made up to suit the style or character of the piece, or just because it evokes even more emotion from the listener. Then I have the student tell me which way they enjoyed it better. At times I will ask them how they would like to express a passage of music in the most musical way possible, and allow their creative side to really come out. Focusing the learning process this way will develop the student as a musician, rather than someone who is just playing notes and counting. Learning is much more fun and interesting this way and it will really have the student appreciate the music they are playing.