Teaching Philosophy

By Seonju Jo

"As a pianist and educator, my teaching philosophy is guided by a commitment to cultivating independent, expressive, and well-rounded musicians. I aim to provide a learning environment where students feel both supported and challenged—one that prioritizes individual growth, healthy technique, and meaningful engagement with music."

Student-Centered Learning

My experience teaching music in both South Korea and the United States has shown me the importance of individualized instruction. While some students excel with structured guidance, others flourish when encouraged to take initiative. Recognizing this diversity, I adopt a student-centered approach that adjusts to each learner’s unique needs, strengths, and goals.

By observing students closely and communicating openly, I strive to build a nurturing space where they can explore their potential with confidence. This approach is rooted in my own experience as a student, where a mentor’s belief in my abilities helped me discover a deeper connection to my artistry.

Fostering Independent Musicianship

A key aspect of my teaching philosophy is to encourage students to become self-directed learners. This includes helping them develop critical listening skills, goal-setting strategies, and reflective practice habits.

I often incorporate tools such as practice journals, video recordings, and self-assessment activities. Students are encouraged to record their playing, listen back, and identify areas for improvement. These strategies foster accountability and deeper musical understanding while promoting autonomy and self-confidence.

Creative assignments like improvisation or composition are also used to stimulate curiosity and encourage artistic exploration.

Building Sustainable and Healthy Technique

Musical growth must be supported by physical well-being. I emphasize healthy playing habits that reduce tension and prevent injury. Proper posture, relaxed hand position, and mindful practice methods are introduced early and reinforced throughout lessons.

I use mirrors, video feedback, and slow-practice strategies with and without metronomes to help students internalize both kinesthetic awareness and rhythmic control. Additionally, I encourage rest and pacing during practice sessions to sustain focus and prevent fatigue.

Cultivating a Lifelong Relationship with Music

For many students, learning music is not just about performance—it’s about developing a lifelong source of expression, resilience, and personal joy. I support this by balancing technical repertoire with pieces that align with each student’s musical tastes.

Students are invited to explore different genres and styles, including classical, jazz, and popular music. This variety not only keeps learning engaging but also builds flexibility and openness—traits essential for developing musicians in a global, interconnected world.

Ongoing Growth as an Educator

Teaching, for me, is an evolving process. I continue to refine my pedagogy by participating in music education conferences, wellness seminars, and interdisciplinary discussions. My role is not only to impart knowledge but also to model curiosity, discipline, and passion for learning.