Stephanie, at the National Opera House in Seoul, South Korea
Today’s teacher showcase features Stephanie Baker, who recently joined the wonderful Winterhalter Music team! Stephanie loves music and infuses that love in all aspects of music she is involved in: private lessons, her school choruses, the school musical she directs, and her own singing. Stephanie teaches primarily voice, but also teaches piano, drums, and violin. In high school she sang in chorus, played in the orchestra, and played in the drumline. Wow! Stephanie currently teaches vocal music at a Montgomery County high school and middle school in addition to teaching with Winterhalter Music. I’m so thrilled to welcome Stephanie! I hope you enjoy learning more about her in the interview below.
1. Why did you decide to become a music teacher?
I decided to become a music teacher because I love music, and I love teaching as well. In high school, I waffled between going to college to study music or to study veterinary medicine, but decided that I would rather continue taking 3 periods of music every day instead of more science classes to get ready for college. I have also had many wonderful travel experiences with my musical ensembles (England, Japan, South Korea, and the Czech Republic to name a few countries), which swayed my opinion toward music even further. 🙂
2. What is your favorite thing about teaching?
My favorite thing about teaching is getting to know each of my students while working with them on their musical skills. My second favorite thing would be unlocking those “aha!” moments for students and sharing in the joy they feel as something becomes easy for the first time.
3. How do you motivate your students?
I give students short-term and long-term goals, as well as constantly let them know how they are improving. Each student has their own strengths, and I think that the key to motivation is to always let them know how much they rock!
4. Describe your teaching style.
Totally tyrannical! (Not!) I mix tasks and warm-ups with constant feedback, jokes, and encouragement. I think that being friendly and building a positive relationship with each student is vital to successful lessons.
5. What are some fun facts that people might not know about you?
I have traveled to over 13 countries, mostly with music or theater groups. I am a fantastic cook/baker (just ask my roommate!), and my signature dessert is a four-layer triple chocolate mint cake. I also am a die hard Penn State fan – We Are!
Thanks so much for reading! I hope your summer has been great so far. Subscribe to the newsletter, leave a comment below, and “like us” on facebook.
You can find out more about Stephanie in her bio. Contact us if you’re interested in beginning lessons with Stephanie or one of our other wonderful teachers.
Sincerely,
Cassie
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