Leslie Raich has been age of 5, focusing on piano and voice. She has been part of the Melody Mart team since March 2020, where she teaches piano and music theory to young students, typically kindergarteners who are familiar with letters and numbers up to age 10.
In addition to her teaching role, Leslie plays several instruments, including the Bb clarinet, violin, and organ, and she is involved in conducting and composition. She earned her Associate degree from Prairie State College and a Bachelor’s degree from Trinity Christian College. Leslie began teaching piano in 1993 and has been playing in church settings since the age of 10, with a focus on conducting church choirs and orchestras since 2005.
Leslie's teaching philosophy emphasizes adapting her approach to each student's unique learning style, creating a welcoming and engaging learning environment, and employing a scaffolding method to build a solid musical foundation. She finds great joy in seeing students' progress and their excitement when mastering new skills.
Her favorite teaching moments include witnessing students’ first successful performances, their breakthroughs in understanding, and the personal connections they make with her, such as giving her tokens of appreciation or sharing heartfelt moments. Leslie uses Bastien for beginners and transitions to Faber & Faber for more advanced students. She values kindness and strives to make a positive impact on each student's life. Leslie has had students who have pursued careers in music education, underscoring her belief in the lasting impact of nurturing and supportive teaching.
Education
Associates in Fine Arts: Prairie State College
Bachelors of Music in Music Education: Trinity Christian College
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