Director Mattea
What do you enjoy about being Myriad’s Director?
Myriad is not only developing young musicians and dancers, but they are also developing good people. Myriad has given me a strong curriculum that offers growth and life skill development for their students. I have been very impressed with the amount of work that goes into my training as an arts educator to provide the best experience for my students. Myriad does not take the role of teaching lightly, and I am grateful to be part of a company that values individual growth and recognizes a child’s cognitive and creative path of learning.
Favorite Inspirational Quote
Whether I’m functioning as Myriad’s Director, or as your Dance teacher, and I promise you that I will always be in one of three places; in front of you to cheer you on, behind you to have your back, or beside you so that you are not walking alone.
What do you Love about Teaching?
My journey as a teacher stems from my experience as a dancer. Self motivation, tenacity, healthy movement, and motivation are life skills that I developed through dance. Watching these same skills develop in my own students is extremely rewarding and I am fortunate to be able to create and share my art with the next generation of artists. I believe that the influence of a teacher has a huge purpose in a student’s life. Being in an environment with many creative and artistic young minds is a joy. Not only am I helping my students grow toward their goals, but I am consistently learning from them as well. I love to teach because this art offers more than esthetics. In addition, this art form offers skills that will help these students overcome the experiences that they will face in their lives, even outside of dance. I am grateful to be part of their journey.
Where did your receive your Degrees in Music / Dance Education
Company Artist: Utah Metropolitan Ballet
Bachelor’s of Fine Arts: Dance and Dance Education with a Ballet Emphasis, at Utah Valley University
Your Unique Approach to Teaching
The classroom is a safe environment that allows students to practice with encouragement and confidence, even in moments of failure or frustration. In my classes, I use a variety of blocked and creative combinations and games to nurture body and mind equally in dance. I stress the importance of technical correctness to avoid injury, but I allow for mistakes and creative moments in class. Diminishment of creativity in any student can be stifling, which is why I provide experiences throughout class that allow students to showcase their own movement and choreographic ideas. I offer new ways of thought during the choreographic process and include moments of exploration in my lesson plans.
What are your hobbies & Interests?
I have many other hobbies in addition to dance, but most of which include my time spent in the outdoors. Mountain biking, surfing, skiing, backpacking, and spending time with my husband and dog; about sum me up 🙂
Anything else to share?
I love what I do. I am just as much inspired by my students as I hope they are inspired by me. I am very proud of the work that my students do in class. We have fun together and my passion for the arts can ensure you that you will receive excellent training and coaching.
How old were you when you began learning to dance?
5 years old, as a dancer.