Teaching
Dr. Gabriela Calderón Cornejo's teaching opportunities, have provided her with extensive experience in working with students from all ages, levels, and backgrounds. Her diverse teaching experiences involve several community music schools, outreach programs, and higher education institutions in both Costa Rica and the United States, including the University of Costa Rica, Ithaca College, Ball State University, and Indiana Wesleyan University. Currently, it is her ambition to continue to pursue musical growth, share her knowledge, and watch the development and progress of both younger and older artists. Gabriela is a faculty member at the Community School for Music and Arts (CSMA), Cañada College and Skyline College.
Teaching Philosophy
As a teacher, Gabriela is always conscious about not becoming an out-of-reach authoritative figure. Instead, she puts great effort into creating a safe learning environment and building a relationship with each of her students. To achieve this goal, she focuses on a student-centered education that allows both of them to collaborate and discuss the individual students’ interests, strengths, goals, and learning styles. This has led to not only making piano lessons more enjoyable and less stressful for students, but also has permitted Gabriela to creatively tailor lessons that adjust to their specific needs.