Laszlo Gardony, Professor

"I focus on finding the musical styles and the performers that truly inspire and excite my students. Then I find ways to expand their horizons and further develop their performing and writing skills, using their favorites as launching pads for discussion and expansion. My goal is to help them develop into well-rounded musicians who retain their love of music and develop their original voice all the while learning about the masters and honing their musical skills. My happiest moments as a teacher come from seeing a student's eyes light up about an assignment, a recording, or either their own performance or mine. I feel that because I've helped my students learn how to evolve effectively and joyfully they can learn life lessons in addition to their musical training."

"I try to teach students ways of practicing in which inspiration and analysis mutually support each other. My aim is to teach them an appreciation of both intuition and analysis so there is no conflict between the two. Instead, they mutually enhance each other. I want to see my students grow more inspired as well as more knowledgeable. I always emphasize having fun while learning, enjoying the process. I encourage my students to always practice in a musical way, never approaching music mechanically or viewing it as a mere skill."