Teaching Philosophy
Dr. Danielle Davis (Dixon), Ph.D.
Before birth, your developing child has been exposed to music in the most organic, natural way possible: their mother’s heartbeat. In the fifth month of development, your baby’s hearing has fully developed. This is where I believe the lifelong musical journey begins. My life’s goal is to share my passion for music with your child by catering lessons to their individual abilities, learning styles, and levels. I believe each child is unique and deserves to be celebrated, praised, and encouraged in their lessons.
Whether your child is just beginning music lessons and wants to memorize their favorite song or is a seasoned pianist working towards mastering a challenging piece, each lesson is specifically catered to their individual goals. They will always be encouraged in a welcoming, respectful, inspiring, and wholesome environment. Throughout their time of study, I focus on developing technique, listening skills, music theory understanding, musical expression, and artistic creativity. At The Main Conservatory of Music Inc., the focus is not on competition or receiving a mark or grade but on enhancing the love for music and the joy it brings. We celebrate progress and accomplishments, which leads to the ultimate satisfaction and joy — something that a mark or grade simply cannot provide.
I have learned, and continue to learn, throughout my teaching career, the importance of structure, but also the importance of personal creativity. Creating my own music and writing lyrics has been a powerful learning tool throughout my life, and I will always encourage my students to lead with their hearts and create their own music. This is a wonderful opportunity for your child to ‘take the reins’ and allow their creativity to flow. There is no greater smile than the smile after a student has written their own song and successfully performed it. This incredible experience has changed me as a teacher, and I always encourage creativity and musical exploration. I believe in the power of music and I believe in your child.
Rosanna Smyth, M.Ed.
“We all learn best by imitating others.” (Andrea Bocelli)
Music has been a part of my life since before I could speak, and studies have shown that musicians who continue to hone their skills as adults are the ones who had the greatest exposure to music – in any form – as youth and children. In elementary school, my grade eight music teacher allowed my best friend and I to stay in her classroom for hours after the last bell, teaching us how to play every instrument in the band room. Before that, I had a piano teacher who could get young beginners to play Mary Had a Little Lamb as though it were the most beautiful piece of music. And before that, I had a father who played an old, out-of-tune acoustic piano in our home; a mother who loved to hear him play; and a large extended family who would sing a capella together at the dinner table after a meat-and-potatoes meal.
Although I trained as an educator and musician, the only difference that sets me apart from current and potential students is that I began learning piano before them. Music is all around us, and it is a gift that anyone can receive. While some people possess innate talent in one or more areas, anyone can learn the technical, theoretical, expressive, and interpretive skills that make up a well-rounded musician. My aim is to help students discover and develop their unique musical strengths and interests, and to gently stretch them in areas where they wish to grow.
Each student is encouraged to progress at their own pace, and to notice moments of joy and delight as they set and work towards short- and long-term goals. Most of all, students are invited to learn about the musicians who inspire them. When they come to know – as Andrea Bocelli did – that “love is the secret energy behind every note,” I believe the journey of a true musician has begun. And whether I am learning alongside aspiring performers, composers, teachers, worshipers, acoustic engineers, or parents who lull their children to sleep at night, I hope that each student will find a way to share their unique musical gifting in a world that can always use a little more love.