Ms. Kim Sopata's Teaching Philosophy

» Kim's teaching resume (.pdf) 

» Jubal Studio Policies form (.pdf) 

My philosophy of music education is to inspire and encourage aspiring musicians in order to bring out the full potential within them. I discourage competitiveness within my studio, choosing instead to foster friendships, fun and a feeling of mutual encouragement as well as a safe place for constructive critiquing. I encourage my students to try all styles of music (including jazz, pop, ethnic, and contemporary music).

In addition, students explore the various facets of music composition, transposition, improvisation, and theory. I have a master's degree in Ethnomusicology (the study of music in the context of culture), and I try to incorporate this information into my lessons as much as possible. Students have several opportunities each year to play my collection of eclectic flutes from around the world, as well as to learn about the music traditions of other cultures. I expect hard work, great attitudes, and regular practice. Students with these characteristics can expect a rewarding and fulfilling musical experience in my studio.

Teaching Experience

I have been teaching privately since 1990, usually maintaining a studio of between 15-25 students. I have served on the faculty of the Zion Conservatory of Music, the Music and Arts Center of Charlotte, and the Southern Park Music School in Charlotte. I am the co-founder of the Flutastic Days of Summer Flute Workshops, and have taught on the faculty of the University of Wisconson-Whitewater Flute Camp and the Illinois Valley Community College Summer Flute Retreat. I have also given flute masterclasses and lectures at Wheaton College.

In addition to private teaching, I have also worked as a substitute instructor for the Merit Music Program and have founded and directed two flute choirs for middle school and high school children. In 2002 and 2003 " I presented one-day workshops at the Music Arts School in Highland Park that included a lecture on the history of flutes in the world, an introduction to contemporary techniques, and group activities. I also regularly give lectures for my own students on such topics as key signatures, acoustics, flute history, contemporary techniques, vibrato, and maintenance.

Testimonials

Here's what students and parents have said about Kim and the Jubal Flute Studio:

"Thank you very much for being my private flute teacher for my first year of flute. You have gotten me off to a very good and hopefully successful year of flute."
—Carly, age 12

"You've been a very inspiring teacher. I've acquired a variety of helpful strategies. I want you to know that you've been a very dedicated teacher and thoughtful! I'll never forget you."
—Pam, age 55

"Thank you for taking me to the orchestra. I learned a lot. It was really fun. I liked it because there was great music. I like playing the flute because it is very musical. You're a great flute teacher."
—Abby, 9

Studio Snapshots

Students with Kim at a recent recital.

Group classes and pizza parties are just some of the fun things we do together.

Students perform in recitals twice per year.