Viola Lessons in Castaic, CA

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle

As a student I had many teachers who made me achieve at their pace and with their understanding of what the violin required. Ultimately the classical route did not give me enough freedom to play the way I wanted to. In my work as a teacher I have found that the pursuit of an instrument, though hard work, should fundamentally be enjoyable for the student. Whether it is finding the music that resonates deeply with you, or constructing practice assignments that are clear and achievable within a week, I want to connect with each student I teach and help them to find a regular rhythm in their lessons that keeps them feeling productive. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Harp Accordion Harmonica Lap Steel Guitar Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Shakuhachi Oboe Bassoon English Horn Conga Latin Percussion Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonards Essential Elements book, as well a basic understanding of music. Once the student has progressed to have a nice grasp of the fundamentals of music, I usually begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. I also believe in the importance of listening to as many professional recordings as possible of the instrument the student is taking lessons on. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Electric Violin

I have taught in the classroom and privately for over 10 years. When students start on their instrument I encourage the parents to be part of the lesson so they can help and encourage practicing at home. When the students are at a beginning stage I have them practice about 20-30 minutes a day. At the beginning the student is getting adjusted to the instrument and I don't want to push them too much. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Creating a non-judgemental atmosphere, where students are free to experiment, make mistakes, and try again, is crucial for learning an instrument such as the violin. With this instrument, repeptition is key to learning. I also strive to set very clear, manageble goals, so students feel a sense of accomplishment at each stage. This sense of accomplishment is motivating to the student as well as the teacher! I often let students have a choice of which solo piece they get to play, as I have witnessed many past students rise to the ocassional to learn a piece they are passionate about! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Viola Bass Guitar Ukulele Mandolin Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

Traditional. Classical: Suzuki Jazz: Mel Bay Modern Guitar and Mickey Baker. Styles and lesson books used varied depending upon student and school. I like to involve the student in any way I can and make sure they have an interest in the subject matter. I stress the importance of practicing and enjoyment of music. I believe music is a universal language and I approach lessons with an intuitive understanding of musical elements as well as traditional study of theory and craft. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I was assistant principal cellist of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra for 15 years from 1987 to 2002. And I was an Assistant Professor of Music at the University of Mississippi in Oxford from 1988 and 1998. After 1998, I teach cello at the prestigious Millsaps College in Jackson, Mississippi. I nwas also the Music Director and Conductor of the Mississippi Youth Symphony Orchestra for 9 years. During that time, he led the youth group on inaugural overseas concert tours to stages in Europe and China, reaching their highest level and largest audiences to the date. Read More