Chelsie S
Instruments: Violin
Styles: Classical, Musical Theater, Opera, Latin, Showtunes, Spirituals, Soul
Chelsie S
Instruments: Violin
Styles:
Classical, Musical Theater, Opera, Latin, Showtunes, Spirituals, Soul
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 5-80
Howard University Mechanical Engineering
2019- COSMIC Orchestra First Violin
2014-2017 Howard University Symphony Orchestra Principle Chair
2005-2012 All county/ Tri-County Honors Orchestras
2006-2012 Solo and Ensemble Music Adjudication (performance grades 1-2)
Violin is my first love. I have been playing and learning since the 3rd grade, all the way through my post college years. I have played in many honors orchestras, in most opportunities as a principal chair of the assigned section. I have never felt a particular sense of competition for the art, I just bring passion to all that I play. I played in the Howard University Symphony Orchestra as a principal chair. And now play in the COSMIC orchestra of Southern MD as a first violin. I have been teaching for about 7 years to young beginners.
In my 7 years of teaching I have taught 8 students. My primary focus is practice and the elements that make practice most effective. I believe that there are key basics that any beginner can master to carry them through their journey as a musician. I love teaching about overcoming the fear of notes on the page, as I believe every piece has a story to tell. And understanding the story behind the piece brings forth an artistic element that gives each student their own unique style and approach. I believe sight-reading, scale and arpeggio, and accompanied pieces are important to teach as well. I welcome all ages as no one is too young or too old to learn the beauty of the violin!
I prefer using the Suzuki Method for beginners. I do, however incorporate different methodologies and “tricks of the trade” that I was taught through the years that helped me to increase confidence, poise, and technique. For example, I believe that every beginner should learn at least one scale a week in 2-3 octaves slurred. This helps to train the ear as well as increase the dexterity in shifting techniques. I also teach in a duet or group style as this helps beginners learn to listen, match pitch, and learn timing in leadership techniques. There are many ways to learn the violin, but passion for the instrument must be brought to the surface for every student to feel comfortable in their own style and sound.
When learning a new craft it is never a race or competition. Staring slow and steady helps the student develop a sense of consistency, diligence, and discipline in the craft, that can carry them through to becoming an advanced player. Learning a new instrument can be frustrating and disheartening when practice is not routine, so I teach a routine that gives the student structure and focus to be efficient in their time with me, and then their time in individual practice. This also gives the parents a sense of how to support their child in the craft if there are not a musician or violinist themselves.
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