Expectations and Philosophy

Over the years my flute playing has made possible many wonderful experiences.  What was the highlight of my school years has become the center of my professional life.  Music has allowed me to meet interesting and amazing people, travel to exotic corners of the world and experience things that would have otherwise been impossible.  Making music with other people has been and continues to be a highlight of my life.

While I understand that few of my students will choose to make their living playing music, I do have very high expectations.  As with academics, sports or any other activity, the amount of progress and enjoyment is usually in proportion to the amount of energy and time given.  The more one puts into the lessons and flute playing in general, the more one will get out of it in return.  Music is something that can be enjoyed for the rest of one’s life. 

Each student has different desires and needs for their flute playing.  I take the student’s goals for their flute playing and add my own to create an individual format for each student.  Obviously, there are things that every student must work on and master – such as tone, breathing, technic, sight-reading and musicality.  I encourage each student to participate in their school band program and their district solo contests.  I also encourage students to get out and participate in as many other musical experiences as possible, such as playing in their school musicals, auditioning for some of the local youth band and orchestra programs, honor bands and festivals.  I also hope that the students will attend local musical events such as symphony concerts, the opera, ballet, recitals and masterclasses.

The two things I require from students are a desire to learn to play the flute better and commitment. I am only interested in working with students that can answer yes to the following questions:

1. Do I really want to practice regularly?
2. Am I going to do the things that are assigned?
3. Am I committed to correcting things in my playing even when it requires effort?

I have found that students that do these three things are always very successful in their playing – and usually in everything else they do! 

Great students practice intelligently and mindfully.  Setting aside a regular daily time is the best way to improve quickly and consistently.  Record your practicing to understand what it is you might not be hearing in your playing.  Listen to your recordings with a teacher’s ear.  Hear what needs to be addressed, then fix it!  Focusing on the basics will lead to improvement through discipline.  Beginning every practice session with attention to tone, intonation, technique, breathing, vibrato and phrasing is essential.  By building and toning these “muscles” your playing will become stronger and more beautiful.

Above all, please communicate with me.  If something isn’t working, tell me.  If it hurts someplace when you play, tell me.  If you had a great flute moment, tell me!  The more we work together, the more satisfying the learning experience becomes.

Back to top 

Flute photos by Laurie Dunn

COPYRIGHT © 2006- Rachel Anderson Flute Studio
Site Designed and Maintained by DunnYesterday, Laurie Dunn