Julien's Guitar Studio

Teaching Philosophy

Music, like any skill, is not inborn. Everybody is born with the possibility to develop talent. Unfortunately, too many people give up on the idea of realizing their dreams because of a lack of self-esteem. From any given age, one can learn how to master an instrument. The role of a music teacher is above all to give his/her students the tools, knowledge and skills they need for developing a musical life. 

The process of learning music is known for cultivating a healthy brain. It helps develop skills that can become very useful outside of the musical world. Discipline, patience, self-esteem, memory, imagination and creativity are amongst those skills. In addition, music brings people together and encourages social interactions. Building musical projects, playing in bands, chamber music groups or orchestra favors the development of teamwork, responsibility, independence and punctuality. Performing on stage is the ultimate reward for any musician or group of musicians. Even if a student decides not to become a professional musician or a teacher, the abilities developed during his/her musical studies will benefit both his/her professional and social lives.  

As a music teacher, I always favor teaching one on one, especially with beginners. This way, I can get to really know my students personally in order to give them the exact information they need to succeed. Occasionally, I compose pieces for my students during or outside of lessons. I encourage them to develop their creative side in asking if they like or not my musical ideas and how they would improve it. I also ask young beginners to write their own lyrics on the song they are learning. It helps them memorize the tunes as well as getting them involved in the creative process. On the other hand, I encourage private students from any level to play - in the purest sense of the word - with each other. This approach breeds motivation and helps them develop their listening abilities.  

Additionally, teaching step-by-step is evidenced in my teaching. Each step must be securely assimilated before moving to the next one. I believe that the challenge for a music teacher is to find the right piece that both raises the student’s interest and helps him/her develop specific new abilities that are reachable as a short-term goal. I work with my students in order to find that piece that matches their tastes and opens new doors. 

Finally, I think that my devotion for teaching music comes from the fact that I love seeing my students grow and improve musically. Their smiles when they manage to play their first song, play publicly or simply listen to music are my best reward. Setting up both short term and long term goals, and giving my students the tools and motivation for them to meet and surpass those achievements is my priority.