Dr. Kristin Force, PhD, MA, B.Mus
About Kristin
Kristin began teaching music lessons in 1999 during her Bachelor of Music degree at Brock University. In 2003, she attended the University of Ottawa for her Master's Degree in Musicology, and taught music lessons at Amulet Studios (Ottawa).
In 2004, she moved to Toronto to begin her PhD in Musicology at York University, focusing on the psychology of film music and the film music of Philip Glass. Upon completion of her PhD, she became sole proprietor of the West Bend Private School of Music teaching alto saxophone, piano, and music theory.
In addition to teaching music lessons, Kristin has volunteered at the Child Development Institute (Toronto), tutored for the Working Women Community Centre (Toronto), and held various positions in university teaching and learning at the Centre for the Support of Teaching (York University).
Currently, Kristin teaches private saxophone and piano lessons and is part-time faculty at Toronto Metropolitan University, teaching film music to undergraduates and students in continuing education at the Chang School.
Philosophy Of Teaching
I have always known that I was meant to be a teacher, but it was not until I attended Brock University for my Bachelor of Music that I realized this was the career path I should choose.
The group of professors and music instructors at Brock inspired me to teach music lessons as well as musicology at the university level.
My teaching philosophy in the context of music is to connect with students and inspire them. I take the time to get to know each student, work at the student's own pace, and allow the student to choose music that they would like to play, based on their age, level, and ability. I believe students should feel comfortable making mistakes and should be encouraged as much as possible.
I also believe that it is important to develop life skills such as team-work and accountability through music. For this reason, I encourage students to participate in music ensemble programs such as choirs, orchestras, and bands. Singing, playing, and performing with others is also a great way to meet new people, make friends, and have fun.
Since my research area is rooted in audience response to music, I also encourage students to examine their own response to different types of music. My goal is for students to not only become interested and engaged in playing their instrument, but also form questions related to the importance of art in society.