Wilcox Music Studio

Santaquin, Utah

801-369-6209

Welcome

More than anything, I want my students to recognize my genuine passion for teaching and interest in them as individuals. I believe that all students are capable of learning to play the piano, but it is up to me as their teacher to be willing and dedicated to helping them succeed.

I believe that my skills as a teacher should be constantly evolving. I expect my students to learn and grow in this process and so should I. I have come to understand that passion and preparation are key elements to teaching all age groups of students.I believe that a successful studio consists of eager, enthusiastic students ready to participate in their weekly lessons and willing to work together with me to complete a common goal.The student in this studio setting will feel comfortable and confident in asking questions and seeking guidance.My success as a teacher is not met until all students are provided with the opportunity to succeed.

I use several different method books (Bastien, Faber, Piano Pronto) and theory strategies, depending on the individual student.I don’t believe that all students fit into one mold or learn the same way.I feel it is important to incorporate many different media into learning music.

I love teaching all students, but particularly beginning students that are elementary school age. Their enthusiasm is contagious. I use several technique and theory approaches to instill in them the note names, note location on the keyboard and staff, note types and beats, rhythm, fingering and music history.I love watching them grow lesson by lesson, month by month and year by year.

I encourage my students to perform for others as much as possible.Even though it can be anxiety-provoking, the feeling of accomplishment at the end gives the student a sense of emotional satisfaction. I feel this builds their confidence and self-esteem, not only in music but everyday life. I also believe it is important for them to make mistakes and learn that it is okay, they can go on and finish strong. I constantly praise them for even the smallest accomplishment and encourage their parents to do the same.

Music, particularly the piano, provides so many levels of growth for young children.They learn discipline and the idea of delayed gratification. In a world where children are conditioned to having everything with a click of a button, it is good to show them that some accomplishments take time and effort. A young child’s brain is like a sponge. It is most effective to introduce a child to piano early on when their brains are the most open to new experiences and to absorbing new information.Piano lessons and practice sessions support memory development, hand-eye coordination, and fine motor skills.

Together, my students and I grow and learn, succeed and fail, but most importantly learn to love music and build self esteem.