Viola Lessons in Berlin, MA

Instruments: Violin Viola

Although I do not teach Suzuki method, I do like to use the Suzuki method books as a resource for teaching younger students. The first piece my school-aged students learn will always be one that they know the tune to already: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, for example. Once students are comfortable in holding and using the violin, I introduce a little bit of note reading at each lesson. For adult students, understanding of the instrument will come much faster, so I love getting my students to play music with which they can focus on making a beatiful sound while still learning the fundamentals. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Flute Fiddle Piccolo Music

I'm a musician, a music educator, and music researcher. I enjoy teaching and sharing my passion for music with students of all ages. I received my Bachelor of Music in Music Education from Furman University in Greenville, SC and received my Master of Music in Music Education from Boston University in Boston, MA. I'm a certified music educator in the state of South Carolina and Massachusetts. I perform regularly on the flute and the violin but have had experience learning and playing other instruments such as viola, cello, bass, trumpet, trombone, and piano. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students who are children, I like to start with Essential Elements and then progress to the Suzuki Method books. Later I might supplement this material with etudes and duets or pop song arrangements. For adults, I first determine their priorities and then focus my instruction on what will keep their lessons fun and engaging. Whether the student is interested in playing chamber music with friends, participating in a community orchestra, or just improving their skills so that they can experience the joy of making music, I am happy to tailor the lessons to meet their needs, Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

I have been teaching for over five years, taking on students as young as 5 and as young as 65. ;) I have taught both privately, in duos, and in larger groups. My teaching experience has been very multi-faceted. For one student, I'll be teaching a Bach Minuet, and for the next it could be a Lord of The Rings excerpt! I like to emphasize the importance of practice and playing your instrument on a regular basis to accelerate progress. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Viola Banjo Ukulele

 Stephen is a graduate of Columbia University. A composer of more than fifty pieces, his music has been performed by both chamber groups and orchestras in the US and abroad. The most notable performers of his compositions include the Gregg Smith Singers, Stitching Combinatie van Utrechtse Muziekbelangen, New Calliope Singers, Group for Contemporary Music, and the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble. Stephen continues to work as a freelance guitarist and conductor, performing in various national venues with the Gregg Smith Singers, the Group for Contemporary Music, the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble, and the Composers Ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Viola Ukulele Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

For beginner piano students, I have found the Faber Piano Adventures books to be quite successful. For other lessons, I try to tailor them to each student and find materials that fit with their unique music goals. I have drawn from a variety of music resources, as well as my own knowledge, to help students learn through their own unique way of thinking. I believe it is important to build off of the skills that students already have, and to find ways to support them as they grow in other areas. Read More