Viola Lessons Solano County, CA

Instruments: Viola

For beginning students I like to begin with learning scales, becoming aware of the circle of fifths, introducing different types of bow strokes, bow control, and other essentials along with simple Suzuki book solo pieces. Once the student has progressed a little further, I will introduce more difficult solo repertoire that I feel will help the students techniques while also showcasing their abilities. For adults, I will try to find out what music the student is interested in and work with them in that way, in order to keep them engaged and enjoy playing music! Read More

Instruments: Violin, Cello, Viola, Double Bass

I was assistant principal cellist of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra for 15 years from 1987 to 2002. I was an Assistant Professor of Music at the University of Mississippi in Oxford from 1988 and 1998. After 1998, I teach cello at the prestigious Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi. I was also the Music Director and Conductor of the Mississippi Youth Symphony Orchestra for 9 years. During that time, I led the youth group on inaugural overseas concert tours to stages in Europe and China, reaching their highest level and largest audiences to the date. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Violin, Cello, Viola, Bass Guitar, Organ, Ukulele, Electric Violin, Music, Keyboard, Electric Guitar

Music is something that takes time to understand. It clicks in some students, but most kids take a while to develop musically. Patience is the most pronounced characteristic in my teaching style. It's easy to tell the student what they're doing wrong and what to correct, but that doesn't mean it's the most effective practice. Some kids will get nervous and make the same mistake over and over again. This is where it's important to use positive reinforcement and give the student time and space to be able to understand their mistake and fix it. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Violin, Viola, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Oboe, English Horn, Acoustic Guitar

I use a wide variety of methods depending on the student's current ability level, musical preferences, and goals. I'm also willing to work with a method or book that a student is currently using. Generally, my students have a varying ratio of technique/scale study to work on the foundations, an etude/short piece study to help connect musical ideas and teach expression, and a solo piece that is prepared over a long period of time, most likely for a future recital. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Violin, Cello, Viola, Ukulele, Recorder, Music, Acoustic Guitar

Teaching is a passion of mine that I hope to further expand upon in my post-graduate educational studies. I do my best to provide a personalized lesson that is designed to suit a students playing style.I like to acknowledge a students accomplishments to help encourage their accomplishments. By acknowledging a students accomplishments it helps them thrive and eager to tackle further challenges both in music and their lives. I want my students to enjoy practicing and grow their love for their respective instruments. Read More