This article is from the EMU News Archive. The approximate date of publication was in August 2003. Current EMU news is available at www.emu.edu/news

TO EMU HEADLINE NEWS | MUSIC DEPARTMENT

EMU Prep Music Adds Piano Staffer

Hochstetler gives personal attention to a student.

With Harrisonburg native Monica Hochstedler joining the teaching staff of Eastern Mennonite University's Preparatory Music Program, Shenandoah Valley area families will have access to a unique approach for learning piano.

Ms. Hochstedler will combine a time-tested model of weekly group and private lessons for beginners, ages 6-8. The group lessons will develop comprehensive musicianship skills, including reading, rhythm, technique, keyboard theory and improvising and composing. In addition, students will together learn efficient practice skills and perform and listen to music from a wide variety of styles. Private lessons reinforce concepts learned in the group lesson and will concentrate on individual development.

“Older beginners or transfer students will likely have private lessons only," Hochstedler noted.

When asked about her philosophy of teaching, she replied, “I have a passion for helping students of all ages discover the language of music. Through careful preparation, spending time exploring the sound and feel of music, and reinforcing musical concepts in creative ways, I believe everyone is capable of learning music.

"I also believe that there is music in every person and that through music people can become happier, healthier human beings," she said, noting that she also encourages students to perform in creative settings such as a “keyboard jam” or a “coffee house” recital," she stated.

With over 10 years of teaching experience, Hochstedler completed a graduate degree in piano pedagogy and performance from Westminster Choir College. Most recently she served as director of Southern Methodist University’s Piano Preparatory Division in Dallas, Tex., where she taught group and private piano lessons and supervised graduate teaching interns for five years.

Dr. Samuel Holland, head of keyboard studies and pedagogy at Southern Methodist, said that “Ms. Hochstedler’s teaching personality is warm, student-centered, and supportive. Her course evaluations from students and parents were always high and the effectiveness of her teaching was evident in the recitals, auditions and examinations of her students at all levels.”

EMU’s Preparatory Music Program will also benefit from her administrative experience in her added role of instrumental coordinator.

“Ms. Hochstedler is bringing a wealth of experience and educational background to our program,” said Sharon M. Miller, administrative director of EMU's Preparatory Music Program. “We are excited that she is joining us.”

EMU's Preparatory Program also offers Suzuki violin and piano lessons as well as traditional training in piano, cello, guitar, flute, clarinet and harp. For more information about these offerings, call 540-432-4277.

 

Posted: August 11, 2003