Teaching Philosophy
Like any subject, music requires time, commitment, dedication and patience from a student. Mastery of a basic foundation always comes before more complex musical skills. During lessons, it is Melissa’s goal to cover all areas of musicianship: theory, technique, formal analysis, harmony, ear-training, sight-reading, performance, collaboration, and a comprehensive study of musical literature.
Personalized Approach: No two students are alike. Everyone, learns at a different pace, processes information uniquely, and differs radically in motivation and temperament. Consequently, Melissa customizes her teaching approach according to each student’s unique needs and potential.
Learning Differences: Melissa has experience teaching students with various learning differences. She feels that every student can succeed with support from parents and a desire to learn. Music is not easy, and may not always be fun, but her greatest joy comes from watching students struggle and overcome those challenges by advancing in their musical skills. Given consistent and structured practice, all students can achieve the dream of playing the piano.
Safe Environment: Melissa strives to provide a safe, positive learning atmosphere where students can feel both challenged and encouraged as they learn a difficult skill. She will provide students with several opportunities to perform each year, as well as helping them develop skills in technique, sight-reading, music theory and good practice.
Personal Privacy: Melissa takes your privacy very seriously. Registration information about students and parents will be protected and used only for MSM purposes. Melissa will never share your personal information with third-parties without prior agreement.
Read about her curriculum and parent/student requirements here.
The Studio
Melissa’s studio is held in her home. Within walking distance of Woodinville High School, the location is convenient for students who take after school lessons, and is in a relatively safe local. Parking is provided in her driveway, and comfortable seating is available at the front of the studio for parents and siblings who would like to listen in on lessons.
The studio is equipped with two high quality Yamaha grand pianos to ensure students get the best instruments to learn on. One of these is provided for students to play on during their lessons. Melissa’s second piano allows her to accompany students and play out rhythms with students as she teaches.
Read about appropriate studio use & hygiene expectations here.
Start learning the piano.
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Malouf School of Music 