My Teaching Philosophy

1. Making music while having fun.
In order for a student to make music, they need to feel like they are enjoying it. As long as a student is enjoying what they are doing, technique and performance will be learned and practiced.
2. Discovering what is best for the student.
One of the most difficult parts of teaching is letting go what you want to accomplish for and with the student, and allowing yourself to discover what is best for the student.
3. Making music like a professional.
It is important for a student to hear professional recordings of music they are learning, and from there imitate and remold a style of their own.
4. Produce a beautiful tone every time.
5. Create reasonable goals for the student and teacher.
6. Understanding that learning an instrument takes work.
It is important for a student to understand that although playing an instrument is and should be enjoyable, it also takes work. Emphasize that practice helps them with their skill, technique and musicality. Without their best work effort put into the instrument, improving is a slow strenuous process which can not be enjoyed.
7. Understanding that I am the best role model for the student.
If I want my student to sound a certain way then I must actively demonstrate regularly for them.
8. Every student learns differently.
To be a good teacher and role model for my students, it is important to figure out their learning style. Learning the instrument is hard work that can be enjoyable, as long as the teacher can teach to the style of learning the student processes.

There are numerous ways to teach and to learn. Having specific philosophies helps the teacher create a positive learning environment for all students. In my teaching, I try to create an atmosphere where although I am the teacher, I am also the student. What I mean by this is that I learn from my students just as much as they learn from me. I keep a respectful and honest environment, with a distinctive leadership role to all of my students. It is my goal to help each of my students discover music and learn their capabilities in their lessons.

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Bethaney Cross
Viola
(480)-907-4788
P.O. Box 16071
Bellemont, AZ 86015

Education
Scholastic Diploma Mountain View High School

Teaching Experience
2009-present General Music Teacher Montessori Charter School of Flagstaff
I teach General Music to 1st through 3rd graders. I also teach after school keyboarding, and orchestra for beginners.
2009-present Orchestra Teacher American Leadership Academy
I teach a beginning and intermediate orchestra.
2006-2007 Suzuki Group Class NAU
I taught a viola group class for advanced Suzuki violin students.

Performance Experience
2006-present Section Viola Flagstaff Symphony Orchestra
2006-present Section Viola NAU Symphony and NAU Chamber

Awards
2006 Directors Choice Award Mountain View High School
2006 Orchestra Scholarship NAU
2006 Merit Scholarship NAU
2005 Leadership Award Mountain View High School

Professional Organizations
2006-present ASTA

Purpose

The purpose of this blog is to share information with current and future students interested in lessons with me. This blog also gives information about myself, my history, and my teaching philosophies.