My teaching philosophy is based on having a positive attitude towards the learning process. I believe that anyone can play a musical instrument, at almost any age. Although I focus my teaching on developing strong technique, musicianship and theory I believe that the most important aspect of learning a musical instrument is the learning process itself – The learning process is as important as the result that’s achieved. In other words, what we learn about learning and ourselves, is as important as the progress the we make on the instrument.

Not all of us will become the world’s greatest players but we can have a great time trying. I believe that you should rate your progress against yourself, not compare yourself with the lofty heights achieved by prodigies and today’s award winning recordings. We all have to work within our own limitations and potentials, as that’s all we have got. The aim is to limit your limitations and achieve your potentials. Some students will be exceptional and some will struggle, but most will be somewhere in between. The key is to be content with the skills that you have and work on developing the skills you need.

I have high expectations of my students. I aim to build the students concept of what the instrument sounds like and help them develop the techniques required to achieve it. I encourage students to use their minds, rather than just relying on their intuition. I help them develop sound practise habits, teaching students how to practise just as much as what to practise.

I view my role as helping my students to be their own best teacher, to become independent learners. In the end, we all teach ourselves. What a teacher does is advise, guide and motivate their students, but the real teaching is the teaching of oneself. Students have to learn how to instruct themselves to become better players, teachers are there to point them in the right direction, keep them on the right track and help them have as much fun along the way!

The Vision

To enrich and inspire through the learning of a musical instrument.

Through learning a musical instrument, students will develop:

· Self-esteem
· Self-discipline
· Emotional and physical awareness
· An aesthetic awareness
· Group skills
· Intelligence
· Thinking Skills/Problem Solving
· Non-Linear Thinking
· Memory skills
· A life long activity
· Fulfillment through achievement
· Love and enjoyment of music and music making

How do I achieve this?
Students have weekly, individual lessons concluding with a concert at the end of the year. Motivation is the key to all successful learning - I help my pupils by providing interesting and enjoyable music, opportunities to play with others and helping them achieve technical control of their instruments.

Michael Goldwater

Michael Goldwater studied at Auckland University School of Music, as well as taking lessons with internationally renowned teachers overseas. He has considerable experience as a musician, playing with the Auckland Philharmonia, Auckland Chamber Orchestra, chamber music groups, recording for Radio New Zealand and recording with rock bands. His teaching experience spans many years and numbers hundreds of pupils of all ages.

Michael Goldwater teaches: Clarinet & Saxophone

A quote from a parent.
“...you have a great rapport with your students....you approach the lesson with such a fabulous balance of humour, high expectations and encouragement.”

Lesson length

Weekly lessons range in length from:

Teaching Dates

Music Factory follows the 4 terms of the primary school year. Term dates are the same as Public Primary Schools. There are no lessons on public holidays.