I frequently hear the comment, 'When I was at school my teacher told me I couldn't sing so I have never done so since.' These comments can be devastating to young people. Children need to experience success in order to continue to experiment and develop their skills. Success comes from participation, enjoyment of performing and a positive outlook towards being involved in the Performing Arts. The following philosophies I have developed to live by and teach with are:

Everyone is a performer - Life is a stage, we are the star in our own show. Everyone is a performer whether it be on stage or in everyday life.

Performing is fun! - This is the golden rule. There is a style of performing for everyone, as a soloist, in a group, or even behind the curtains. Performers have to find the style that suits them; when they only have successful experiences, the fear of failure (or embarrassment) is not in the equation.

Spontaneous creativity - This is an element which plays an important role within workshop activities. Students are often inspired when they see things created in front of them, especially if they are the ones who are responsible for the changes in the creation. With this spontaneity comes flexibility, where an original spark within activities is encouraged and imagination is welcomed and incorporated into the lesson.

Creative freedom is essential - I like to encourage students to think outside of the parallelogram. Too often we are restricted by the guidelines and many children are not confident in taking their own initiative. Presenting something that is different from the given task is not always the wrong thing to do.

Everyone is musical - So often people believe that they are unable to contribute to a musical experience except by listening. EVERYONE has some kind of musical ability, even the diagnosed “tone deaf” people. I believe that if people are given the chance to participate regardless of their ability, then they will take bigger chances and by doing this gain confidence through positive experiences.

Children's abilities are underestimated - The 'Mr Tim Extravaganza' is the perfect opportunity to demonstrate how much children are able to achieve when a challenge is set for them. When shown the way, students will rise to the occasion, often having no idea that what they are attempting is well above their normal limits. To encourage greatness is to achieve it.