Eric Hipple
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
The first thing we learn about God in the Bible is that He created. The pinnacle of all that God created was mankind in His own image. Therefore, we as humans are innately creative beings. My teaching philosophy is to help each of my students discover and develop their creative abilities and develop those skills so that they can use them to give glory to God. Whether that is through playing an instrument, singing, movement, or visual art, all people can use their God-given gifts to uplift and edify each other.
WHY YOU WANTED TO BECOME A TEACHER
My original career thoughts were to study “music business” in order to work in a music store. However, upon the recommendation of my academic advisor at Concordia University-Chicago (class of 96’ – GO COUGARS!), I instead went into the music education program. Professor Harrison saw in me the ability to teach and with God’s guidance, I have continued to grow in my teaching abilities ever since.
HOBBIES/INTERESTS
Playing trumpet, guitar, and bass; musicals; Cub and Boy Scouts; camping.
Addi Evans
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
Music is an important part of all our lives, and I want my students to understand what a gift it is to be able to make music themselves. I make sure to teach all of my beginner students the basics of playing the instrument of their choice, and we focus a lot on good instrument posture and bow holds, but I also introduce basic note reading right from the start so that the students don't fall behind in their sight reading skills down the road. I like to make my classroom a safe space to explore musical creativity, and teach my students to use music as an emotional and creative outlet.
WHY YOU WANTED TO BECOME A TEACHER
I started playing Violin when I was 7 and knew right away that playing music was going to be a lifelong love of mine. As I progressed in my musical studies I started trying the other instruments in the orchestral family and really enjoyed learning each of the instruments. Because I had started playing earlier than most of my peers in orchestra class my conductor would recruit me to help teach and tutor my fellow classmates and I think that is when I fell in love with teaching. I love watching students realize their own potential as they start to learn new things, and I especially love equipping them with the musical skills to be a blessing to themselves and to those around them.
HOBBIES/INTERESTS
I have been married for 11 years and have 2 wonderful boys so much of my time revolves around my family. We live in Farmington and raise chickens and ducks. My husband and I enjoy writing and playing music together as a duo, and are also both members of a local cover band. In addition to all things musical, I also enjoy crafting, art, and party planning.
