Viola Lessons in Aurora, IL

Instruments: Violin Viola

I'm a passionate and motivated instructor who loves working with students and sharing my love of music. After graduating from NYU in 2004 with an MA in music performance, I became an active freelance musician where I played orchestral concerts in venues such as Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. Orchestras I've played include the orchestra of St Luke's, the American Composer's Orchestra, the Harribsurg Symphony, the York Symphony, the Elgin Symphony, and the Rockford Symphony. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Viola Saxophone

For beginning voice students, I focus on opening and relaxing the throat by way of diaphragm support and healthy, strong breathing. These are the fundamentals of good singing, regardless of the style.We work on these techiniques with both vocal exercises and repertoire.From there, I focus on the student's quality of tone and helping them find their "natural voice." The best singers use their authentic sound, and are not a second-rate imitation of someone else. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer French Horn

At this point in time I've been blessed with the opportunities to teach in both private one-on-one tutoring settings as well as with large groups of children through volunteering, student teaching and substitute teaching. It was through the summation of these experiences that I predicted- and have ultimately discovered- that I love being a music educator. The height of what fulfills me about being a music educator is the essence of the work: Exploration and nurturing for both the student and the teacher. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar

I adjust my teaching based on the particular student. For adults I take the lessons in whatever direction they like. Subjects covered are more often than not dictated by the student's interest. For children I do take their interests into account but also guide them towards getting better at their instrument. Reading music is an important thing for all my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Ukulele Recorder Euphonium French Horn Tuba Electric Guitar Djembe

The most important philosophical concept about private lessons is this: proceed in a way that will maximize your potential to achieve an excellent goal that you can call your own. Although I am not limited to one method book or another, I typically use Arban's for trumpet lessons - with other books and repertoire along with it. My background is Suzuki violin, followed by music literacy and transposition. So, whatever method book we select, we must consider basic furthering of direct musical perceptions, in addition to achievement of stated goals. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I find it very important to cater to each student individually helping them find the right practice strategies, technical studies, repertoire and most importantly, their own musical identity. My goal is not simply to develop skill, but also to teach students how to teach themselves and awaken their own expectations Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

Piano students: For younger beginners, I like to use the Alfred series. These are the books that I grew up on and I have used them in my own teaching. I like their use of multiple companion books throughout each and every level. For adult beginners, I like to use Alfred's All-In-One adult books, as they feature all of the key elements of the series for younger beginners, simply geared to a more mature learner. Read More