Personal Statement/Bio:

Cami Smith's love for music is two-fold and that is portrayed in her work as a music therapist and private music instructor. Cami had an interest and began her music studies at 3 1/2 years old in Buffalo, NY. She was surrounded by a musical family and after moving to Toledo, OH, they began the Smith Family Performers and played various venues in Toledo. She began teaching violin at the young age of 11 years old and continues teaching private violin and piano lessons. Cami played in many classical and fiddle groups all over the mid-west. Her most memorable experiences include playing with her College Orchestra at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. as well as playing in the Chamber Choir Orchestra and touring all over the United States. She continues her love of music through teaching and being a member of a local irish band, Lexington Field.

Cami began to have an interest in people as early as kindergarten. She always believed there was something more to those with difficulties in school, thus she went on to study Psychology in college and soon found her interest in music therapy. Her studies in music therapy led her to her internship in Glendale, AZ where she worked with children with autism and other developmental disabilities and went on to work in a Neurologic Music Therapy clinic for 7 years. She was passionate about working with individuals with disabilities and those recovering from traumatic experiences. In expanding her love for music and changing non-musical behaviors, she moved to San Diego. Cami began her private music therapy and music teaching business in June 2008 and provides music therapy services to adults in rehabilitation and teaches all ages violin and piano. She has extensive training in working with any and all people with or without disabilities.

Education/Training:

My training and background is through The College of Wooster and the Consortium of Baldwin-Wallace. My degree is in Music Education with an emphasis in Music Therapy. I have my Suzuki certification in Violin books 1-2. I also have further advanced level training in Neurologic Music Therapy through Colorado State University. I also have extensive training and development through Landmark Education, a global educational enterprise.

Teaching Philosophy:

My teaching philosophy is child-centered and based on the iso-principle. I start the learning process by evaluating where the child is in life physically, mentally, emotionally, and developmentally. My background is in music therapy so I regularly use my therapeutic techniques when working with my students. I have always believed that children learn better when they are treated with respect and inspiring them through their strengths and abilities. Learning an instrument or any skill flourishes through the process, not by the end result. Rapport building is the most important part of a student/teacher relationship.

Music Programs:

San Diego Music Therapy Association (SDMTA)
American Music Therapy Association (AMTA)
National Association for Professional Women (NAPW)

Cancellation Policy:

Each student pays the monthly rate at the beginning of the month with check/cash. It is imperative that there is +24 hour notice for cancellations. Any non-medical, non-emergency -24 hour cancellations or no-shows (no call/did not come to lesson) will not be rescheduled unless it works in the teacher's schedule. Any reschedules must be made within the same month or they are paid missed lessons. Any permanent cancellations must be made 1 month in advance and paid in full so the teacher has time and is able to replace that student.

Promotions:

I offer discounts on lesson prices for those with siblings or other family members that start taking lessons.