michelle xu
Cello Lessons
north plano & beyond
My Teaching Approach
My approach to the cello is holistic, incorporating visual, auditory, and kinesthetic skill development to create healthy, sustainable, and versatile cellists. The individuality of each student, their goals, and their needs are emphasized to create a unique approach that balances structure and creativity. Alongside their development on the cello, students gain skills such as critical thinking, empathy, patience, problem-solving, a fearless attitude towards the unknown, and a genuine love for art and humanity. As cellists, students are confident, joyful, proficient musicians with their own unique identities. As humans, students are curious, well rounded individuals that move through their lives with intentionality.
I follow the Suzuki philosophy in my studio, a teaching philosophy based on how children learn their mother tongue. Essential components of this philosophy you will see in my studio are an emphasis on listening, repetition, and community involvement. The “Suzuki Triangle”, where the parent acts as the “at home” teacher alongside the student’s lesson teacher is a crucial point in the philosophy to ensure a supportive learning environment both in and out of the lesson. Ultimately, the Suzuki philosophy’s primary goal is to develop kind citizens with beautiful hearts through a positive music learning environment.
My Focuses
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healthy, sustainable technique, emphasizing balance and development of body awareness
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establishing an effective, structured practice routine based on the needs of each individual
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comprehensive understanding of music through development of listening and literacy skills
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positive, growth oriented mindset
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fun and engaging lesson environment
