Teaching Philosophy: Plato once said, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” And he couldn’t have been more accurate.
"Music, to me, is so much more than notes on a page, vocal warm-ups or fingerings on a keyboard. It’s about blending a love of melody and rhythm with personality and approach. It’s about connecting with smiles and laughter, curiosity and compassion. "
Biography: As a private music teacher for both voice and beginner/intermediate piano in the Boston area, I’ve learned to bring lessons from motherhood into my musical teaching. Each day brings something new—just like music can. I’ve found that blending music and mindfulness—two of my greatest passions—provide intimate learning classes that are calm, clear and foster gentle room for creativity.
But have no fear—there is plenty of fun to be had, too. At its core, music is meant to create joy. And simply said, joy is imperative (for both student and teacher) on any musical journey. It’s important to me to always make time to be silly and giggly—or share a highlight from our day together. Younger children often remind me to embrace the amusing aspects and eccentricities of life—I try to meet them in the middle as their teacher and am always up for a chuckle (and, of course, try to provide one as well). Their energy so often leads the way—whether it’s learning a new song from scratch or perfecting a challenging phrase. Each student is different and I take great pride to find a style that works for both of us. This interdisciplinary, student-led approach has brought me immense fulfillment as an instructor and has had a profound impact on my students.
This year, more than ever, has shown me how important it is to balance a love of musical learning with a love of physical learning. As a teacher, I try to instill a sense of peace in my students not only as they learn how to play the piano or sing a new musical selection, but also how they approach something new. I am a certified Pretzel Kids® Yoga and Mindfulness (ages 2-17) teacher which has not only nurtured my approach to teaching music (breath truly is a powerful thing!), but has also provided a new outlet for me to connect with young students and parents.
When I’m not teaching, you’ll find me helping new families eat, sleep and be well with Burgeoning Bud Postpartum Doula and Pediatric Sleep Consulting, rocking out in a band with my husband, Evan, or cooking up something tasty at home with our children, Will, June, and Oscar.
Learn more about our Voice, Piano and Songa teacher Jessica Petrus-Aird in her Teacher Feature.
"Music, to me, is so much more than notes on a page, vocal warm-ups or fingerings on a keyboard. It’s about blending a love of melody and rhythm with personality and approach. It’s about connecting with smiles and laughter, curiosity and compassion. "
Biography: As a private music teacher for both voice and beginner/intermediate piano in the Boston area, I’ve learned to bring lessons from motherhood into my musical teaching. Each day brings something new—just like music can. I’ve found that blending music and mindfulness—two of my greatest passions—provide intimate learning classes that are calm, clear and foster gentle room for creativity.
But have no fear—there is plenty of fun to be had, too. At its core, music is meant to create joy. And simply said, joy is imperative (for both student and teacher) on any musical journey. It’s important to me to always make time to be silly and giggly—or share a highlight from our day together. Younger children often remind me to embrace the amusing aspects and eccentricities of life—I try to meet them in the middle as their teacher and am always up for a chuckle (and, of course, try to provide one as well). Their energy so often leads the way—whether it’s learning a new song from scratch or perfecting a challenging phrase. Each student is different and I take great pride to find a style that works for both of us. This interdisciplinary, student-led approach has brought me immense fulfillment as an instructor and has had a profound impact on my students.
This year, more than ever, has shown me how important it is to balance a love of musical learning with a love of physical learning. As a teacher, I try to instill a sense of peace in my students not only as they learn how to play the piano or sing a new musical selection, but also how they approach something new. I am a certified Pretzel Kids® Yoga and Mindfulness (ages 2-17) teacher which has not only nurtured my approach to teaching music (breath truly is a powerful thing!), but has also provided a new outlet for me to connect with young students and parents.
When I’m not teaching, you’ll find me helping new families eat, sleep and be well with Burgeoning Bud Postpartum Doula and Pediatric Sleep Consulting, rocking out in a band with my husband, Evan, or cooking up something tasty at home with our children, Will, June, and Oscar.
Learn more about our Voice, Piano and Songa teacher Jessica Petrus-Aird in her Teacher Feature.
