Mark Kohler

"I believe that everyone has a calling, a special talent, their own individual contribution to make that no one else can duplicate. It's that voice inside that keeps pushing us to learn, grow, and discover."

"Sometimes that voice gets lost in the din, fast pace, and competition of a large college environment, making students think it's no longer there, that they aren't special, that they aren't good enough. Self-doubt sets in and you find a student in class frozen in fear. Hardly the scenario imagined after getting the acceptance letter to Berklee!"

"I build my classes on a foundation of mutual trust and respect, a space where fear is kept at bay and every student is expected to work hard, take chances, and make mistakes and then grow from them—but most importantly, to explore and discover, or rediscover, for themselves that unique voice."

"Because it takes high standards, discipline, and hard work to have a successful music career, these elements are integral to all of my classes. Watching students grow in this discover-trust-develop continuum is a constant wellspring of inspiration for me. Being a catalyst in the process is one of the most rewarding aspects of teaching."

"The mechanics of music can be taught anywhere, but it takes a caring, quality teacher to draw the best out of a student."