Violin Lessons Washington

Instruments: Piano, Violin, Viola

For younger students who are beginning, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. This book has great materials for setting up the violin and bow hold, reading notes, rhythm and other musical markings, and introducing basic music theory such as time and key signatures. Also, this book incorporates the foundation of all musical learning, scales and arpeggios, into fun exercises that are enjoyable for every student.For older students who have more experience, I have a range of etudes from Sevcik to Kreutzer that can futher develop and solidify a good foundation of technique.For musical training, I use solo repertoire from Suzuki and other sources that are appropriate for each student's level so that he/she can be healthily challenged musically and technically while feeling accomplished during performances. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Violin, Cello, Trumpet, Flute, Clarinet, Drums, Ukulele, Mallet Percussion, Orchestral Percussion, Conga, Djembe

While studying primarily with Ben Toth and Tom Kolor, she has worked with a number of other teachers specializing in different areas. This has given her a diverse knowledge in world music knowledge and playing abilities. Notable teachers include Joe Galiota (African drumming), Shane Shanahan (Middle Eastern hand drums), Rogerio Boccato (Brazilian hand drums and samba), and Dave Samuels (Caribbean Jazz). Secondary classical percussion instruction was provided by Al Lepak (timpani), John Bacon (drum set), and Michael Burritt (marimba).Though primarily a percussionist, Melanie is also an active violinist and vocalist. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I highly value personalizing my teaching towards every individual student. I believe that everyone needs to acquire their own pace, because it's not how quickly one learns something, it's how much they grasp out of each aspect. I like to focus on the bigger picture- where you'll be in the long run,- rather than running a timed race. I love to see a student truly master what was once foreign to them and see the understanding and fulfillment that they likewise experience! Read More

Instruments: Violin

Music is movement that you percieve by ear and is connected to your whole being. If we do things with heart and soul we feel balanced and happy. The more we experience life in it's multidimensionality the richer it becomes. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Viola

My students are encouraged to take an active part in setting goals for their learning so that they develop a sense of autonomy early on in their musical careers. I ask all students that are new to me if there is specific music they wish to be able to play, what their "wish list" is for their own personal improvement and what they think they do best/what they most enjoy about violin or music as a whole; Read More