Viola Lessons in Richlandtown, PA

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Fiddle Keyboard

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 18 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 5 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching philosophy follows the belief that musical understanding and maturity are easier to discuss once the student is able to execute a variety of technical details. I often say that technique is teaching a student how to make ten shades of blue, but musicality is deciding which shade of blue to use. Musicality can be more subjective than technique, although there are certain guidelines for each period (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, etc.). Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

I began teaching private lessons when I was a junior in high school and have been teaching since then. My philosophy is that any one can play an instrument with the proper instruction and patience. I encourage my students to practice regularly and strive to achieve their goals, but most importantly my goal is to help them to feel more confident and enjoy music, no matter what stage they are at in their musicianship. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass Keyboard

The most important over-arching philosophy in ALL of my teaching, is INDIVIDUAL CURRICULUM. Every student is a unique human being, bringing unique perspective, experiences, talents, and flaws. I adjust all curriculum based on the needs of their students, in order to play up their strengths and address their flaws. My curriculum is also unique in that it values student input much higher than many people who teach strictly from the classical method. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Keyboard

Music is deeply personal; one must get to know each student's own personality, interests, and connections to music. Early on (both in the teaching relationship and in each lesson) one must assess where the student is, as to technical and musical growth, and with the music at hand. Then one finds, models, explains and encourages the next steps the student can achieve. Clear guidance and dialogue about what will happen outside the studio (listening, practice, rehearsal, performance) helps turn the weekly cycle of lessons into an upward spiral of progress, achievement, and reward. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

The most rewarding part of teaching is seeing my students excel and develop their own passions for music. Each one of my students is different, and so each lesson I teach is specific to that student. Acknowledging accomplishments and setting weekly goals for my students allows them to meet those challenges and see the success that comes from all their hard work! It's really a wonderful thing to see. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I am extremely passionate about music and excited to pass my passion on to students.  I have been studying violin since I was 4 years old and it has always been a central part of my life. I graduated from Carnegie Mellon University this past May with a BFA in Violin Performance and Physics.  I enjoy music of all styles and in addition to classical music I play rock and jazz. Read More