Hermann-Lietz School - Haubinda
Westville Girl's High School, Durban, South Africa
Phorms Süd
My Teaching Approach at Glance
I run ensemble-first music programs where students make music from day one. IMPACT is a flexible framework I’ve developed and used internationally to include mixed abilities and mixed instruments, build confident technique, and grow creative musicianship. Classes are practical, collaborative, and structured for steady progress: we start with a shared “common tone,” expand tone range methodically, and layer parts so beginners and advanced students contribute to the same musical outcome. Reflection (short video portfolios), peer mentorship, and purposeful use of technology keep learning visible, efficient, and motivating—for students and teachers alike.
Integrated Ensemble Learning
From day one, everyone makes music together — starting with a single shared tone. Beginners and advanced players can all join in, with repertoire expanding step by step as tone range and skills grow.
Mentorship & Co-Mentorship
Advanced students guide peers, often spotting challenges the teacher may not see. Even the teacher learns within this process, creating a genuine learning community. This approach means the teacher doesn’t need to master every instrument — instead, they guide the concepts while students share responsibility and grow together.
Personalized Assessment
We strive for musical excellence, but at each student’s pace — using video journals and peer mentoring to make real progress visible and rewarding for everyone.
Artistic Pathways
Every student is an artist with a unique voice. Performing, improvising, arranging, and composing are woven into rehearsals—not treated as extras. Ensemble work is balanced with space for individuality, stage presence, and expression, supported by peers and guided by the teacher.
Cross-Curricular Links
Music naturally links to culture, history, language, maths, and science. These connections are not imposed from outside but emerge from the pieces studied, keeping them meaningful and enriching without disrupting the flow of music learning.
Technology Integration
Practical Assistants for scores, tuning, and reference; Progress Tracking through video portfolios; and Artistic Expression with software and recording tools—continuing music’s tradition of evolving creative tools.
The Six Pillars of Learning
A proven ensemble-first framework that gets every student making music from Day 1.
Inclusive, step-by-step progress that raises confidence across all ability levels.
Authentic performances and a stronger music culture school-wide.
What I Bring To Your School
