Viola Lessons in Avenel, NJ

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

For beginner students, I use the Essential Elements for strings (books 1 and 2). In conjunction with these books, I select a repertoire that corresponds with their current abilities, and work my way up from there. For adults and more advanced students, I use various technical studies such as Sevcik, Kreutzer, and Rode, and standard Rep using the International editions. Regardless of the age or skill level, I always strive to maintain constant engagement and motivation throughout my lessons, whether online or in person. Read More

Instruments: Viola

As I get to know the student better, their interest, and what they seem to indiviually need, I can then help them with the physcial aspects of playing and give my own input on musical ideas, bowings, etc.  Since attending Eastman, I have studied specifically with teachers who studied under the great violist Karen Tuttle. Her teaching philosophy is all geared towards playing tension/injury free, therefore relaxing into your own sound and playing to be the healthiest and best violist you can be. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Clarinet Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Double Bass Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been teaching private music lessons for more than 30 years at my home and at my student's homes.  After I received my Master's degree I obtained my teaching certificate in vocal and instrumental music for grades K - 12.  I taught vocal music for the Jersey City Board of Education and later I taught strings for the  Kearny Board of Education.  I prepared students for auditions and recitals always encouraging them to practice and learn music theory and music history. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I am warm and caring, and love to make my students laugh! I find that making mistakes can be much more beneficial than striving for perfection, and use these moments as crucial learning tools for students to move forward. I set goals with, not for, my students, and ask them to self evaluate before I give them my feedback. I provide students with detailed, structured practice plans that work with their schedules, and have high expectations for their time with their instrument (with, or without me). Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

I have been teaching independently since 2004, with experience in classical, Celtic fiddle, bluegrass, rock and improvisation. In addition to private lessons, I have assisted with classes from elementary through high school level at various schools. I plan customized lessons and work with students individually to achieve goals. I like to form real relationships with my students and still stay in touch with students I have not taught for years! It is very rewarding to me to help students find their own voices in music, and I try to provide the tools they will need to be successful in whichever style/field of music they are drawn to. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning or young students (under age 8), music-related games are incorporated into lessons to encourage positive growth, rather than thinking of playing an instrument as a "chore". Small assignments are expected to be completed weekly, so that the child feels a sense of accomplishment and progress. For older or more advanced students, lessons are structured by a regimen of scales, exercises, and classical pieces. If the student so chooses, classical pieces can be exchanged for pop or contemporary music. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

I love to help each student reach their own individual creative potential.  I give them a good foundation in technique, form, ear traning, and artistic expression, but encourage them to find a piece of music or a musical style that they enjoy to pursue and make sure to save time in each lesson to work on that material.  In terms of developing technique and musical skills, I am very detail-oriented and have clear lesson plans for each class, which I outline in each student's individual lesson notebook. Read More