Larry Watson

"I take a pragmatic, practitioner's approach to teaching. I use the Socratic method, coupled with a collaborative approach to instruction that empowers young people to develop their critical thinking skills and integrate their spirit and emotion into all of their endeavors."

"My priorities are to act as a catalyst for students in the discovery of their human potential, to protect them from those who would place limits on their dreams, and to act as a reality check for them as they prepare to make the transition from student to working professional."

"As a veteran performer, I am able to simulate for students what is expected of them as professional musicians. My success, and the success of those I have taught, is based more on strong organizational skills, effective conflict resolution skills, and prudence and intelligence about the manner in which you display your musical and creative talents."

"As a performer, I have worked with some of the finest musicians in the world. I have watched theory go out the window on a live stage. Sometimes you've got to do 'flat-footed singing,' meaning you use your ears without the support of a band, and you raise the roof with your God-given voice. I try to instill that spirit in each student I teach."

"A good ensemble player is one who embraces the African philosophical perspective that says, 'I am because we are.' It is not about you. It is about how you connect to the community, and together you produce art that is collaborative, loving, and socially just."

"I find music to be one of the most effective vehicles to promote social justice in the world. Training young musicians and inspiring them to see the profound, constructive impact they can have on humanity is a gift, and Berklee affords me that opportunity."