Teaching Philosophy
"Without music, life would be a mistake."
- Friedrich Nietzsche
A quote that has shaped two decades of teaching, performing, and guiding students from their very first lesson to the international stage.
A Lifelong Passion
From Piano Student to Mentor
Music is an integral part of my life, and I dedicated myself to intense practice during my piano lessons. I quickly developed a strong passion for working with children and teenagers. As a result, I began working with students and honed my skills in playing the Flute Recorder and various percussion instruments to enhance my sense of rhythm.
I began teaching at the age of 20. Recognising that English would shape my future, I pursued a degree in English Literature as a top student, then completed the Master's program. I was also among the first graduated Pedagogues in Iran, completing my second bachelor's degree.
I am proficient in teaching three languages - Persian, English, and French - both in person and online. Over the years, my students have earned successes in piano competitions, ABRSM exams from England with many Distinctions and Merit achievements, and now the Royal Conservatory of Music here in Canada.
Music as a Universal Language
A Powerful Tool for Communication, Self-Improvement, and Helping Others
Music is an inherent part of every life. It is a powerful tool for communication, self-improvement, and helping others. As educators, we can use music to energise our students and guide them on their life journey. Music unites us all and has the potential to create a better world through its universal language.
I am surrounded by beautiful souls every day, and I thrive on the music that fills my classroom. Whether it is my students playing, myself performing, or recorded music, the beauty of the sound connects me to a better world.
It is not just about pleasure. It is about guiding my students to experience the sense of heaven that music brings, all while imparting valuable knowledge step by step.
Four Pillars
The Pillars of a Strong Musical Foundation
With twenty years of teaching experience, I have learned that every skill plays a crucial role. Without any of these four, we cannot expect students to progress effectively.
Technique
Posture, hand position, articulation, and the physical fluency that lets a student play freely without strain.
Music Literacy
Reading, sight-reading, theory, and the analytical skills that make any score approachable.
Musicianship
Listening, phrasing, rhythm, and ear training - the inner musician that hears before the fingers play.
Artistry
Expression, interpretation, stage presence, and the personal voice that turns playing into performing.
For little students, I use painting, clapping, and rhythm games. We use standard piano repertoire, children's music for rhythm, and creative play to convey concepts. At the beginning of each interview session, we discuss life plans, hobbies, and practice time - then build a planner that fits the student's real life.
My Method
Modern, Practical, Engaging
I believe in teaching modern, practical, and engaging methods that cover all aspects of piano education for children and teenagers. In the early stages, I often begin with the Piano Adventures series to build a strong musical foundation in an enjoyable and motivating way. As students progress and prepare for higher levels, I guide them through the RCM curriculum to strengthen their technique, musicianship, and exam readiness.
Today, many of my students successfully participate in RCM examinations, piano competitions, festivals, and recitals, achieving outstanding results that reflect their hard work and artistic growth. I strongly believe that performances and competitions play a vital role in building confidence, discipline, motivation, and stage presence.
One of the most unique and important aspects of my teaching is improvisation and creative melody transformation, helping students develop creativity, musical expression, and confidence at the piano while keeping the learning process joyful and inspiring. Above all, my goal is to create a positive musical journey where students not only achieve excellence, but also truly enjoy music.
Theory Foundation
Sight Reading
My Philosophy
"Join me as a student, leave me as a teacher."
- Siranoush Akhgarandouz