Sarah M  
Instruments: Violin, Viola, Electric Violin, Fiddle
Styles: Classical, Rock, Folk

I began teaching while still in high school and have maintained a small private studio consistently since. I encourage consistency with practicing and performing in multiple groups for experience. I have a Bachelor's of Music in Violin Performance from Eastern Michigan University, and have been studying violin and playing independently for twenty years. After working in a well known strings store for three years in college I have an extensive knowledge of different music literature and teaching methodology. I have worked with students ranging in age from toddler to adult, even including adult beginners- I am very patient and open to almost anything my students are interested in learning. I performed in a rock/alternative band for years so I have experience with improvisation and composition spanning multiple styles of music.

I create custom lesson plans for each student based on their level, interests and goals. Typically I start brand new beginners with the basics, learning the parts of the instruments and the notes. Being a very visual learner myself, I enjoy using method books such as the Sassmannshaus series, as they are beautifully illustrated and help to capture and hold young children's attention. In addition to teaching scales and technique, I like to bring in songs that the students enjoy to keep the lessons fun and enjoyable. I have extensive knowledge of method books and typically pick and choose aspects of each method that suit the student's learning style best.