My teaching philosophy for dance education centers on the elements of individuality, self-reflection, environment, and engagement in the student and teacher. I desire to create an environment that resembles an orbit, which is formed by the collaboration between the teacher and student, constantly learning and teaching together. I believe that throughout life we are always learning, but we cannot forget the importance of self-education and self-correction.

 

I value the foundation of technique in dance education. Not only does it allow the dancer to execute movements in a safe and more precise way, but it also teaches lifelong skills such as discipline, hard work, concentration, commitment, and setting goals for one’s self. I see repetition as a key role in building strength, flexibility, and endurance. The classroom must be a welcoming place, free of judgment and ridicule, simultaneously allowing individuals to acknowledge their strengths and weakness, thus continuing to grow. 

 

 

Alongside the technical aspect of dance, I believe that dance is a gift that allows us to create and develop a voice individualized to our specific mind and body. Furthermore, the mind and body should always work in conjunction with each other while in the classroom because disengagement will deter the learning process. To avoid this, I seek to incorporate various ways of explanation and demonstration through touch, imagery, sounds, etc. Including these elements in teaching helps to incite the dancer, the choreographer, the performer, and eventually the teacher. I hope to create an environment where my students are comfortable and are driven toward taking risks, trying out new things, and even falling on their butt.  I envision the classroom as a place that provides an open door for endless possibilities. I hope that if my students only take one thing away from my class, it is to always be true to their art, whatever that may mean for them.

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