What Students Learn:
Through lessons, students will learn basic vocal technique, including learning how to develop support, improving vocal range, as well as breath control, focus and proper placement. Through a cross section of vocal repertoire such as art songs, folk songs, operetta and oratorio and music theatre, students receive instruction on historical context and musical style, as well as basic music theory instruction.
Sarah’s students have performed in various venues such as ORMTA recitals and Master Classes, at the 100 Watt Earth Stage at the Ottawa Children’s Festival, the Ottawa Kiwanis Music Festival and at the Music and Beyond Ottawa Family Music Expo. Students have been accepted into the Ottawa Children’s Choir, performed in bands and musical ensembles and have written and performed their own compositions.
Teaching Philosophy:
Creativity and passion are the soul of an artist. To a teacher, creativity and passion are not only the soul, but also the driving forces. To encourage others to be creative, energetic and enthusiastic and to encourage others to realize their potential, their uniqueness and their talent is what draws Sarah to be a teacher and a music leader.
Sarah perceives her role as a music leader to be one who is willing to listen, understand and motivate. It is her duty to foster confidence, to stimulate a love of music and to build a strong foundation for both artistic and spiritual growth.
Sarah believes that studying music and sharing in music with others boosts self image and creative thought. She believes choral singing is a selfless act, for only as a whole can we accomplish what the individual cannot. When we sing together, we are able to laugh together, cry together, and to share life’s experiences together. Through the experience of choral singing, the wholeness of the individual within the group is strengthened. Sarah believes that as we begin to listen to each other, we begin to not just hear the music but to hear what we as a group can say about the music.
She looks forward to sharing her experience, knowledge and love of music with others, and eagerly anticipates the privilege of learning from others in return.
