Viola Lessons in Distant, PA

Instruments: Violin Viola

For people just picking up the instrument for the first time, I find “Essential Elements for Strings” to be a very helpful because it addresses basic technical issues and throws in fun songs and pieces along the way. In these books, the students can learn everything from scales and rhythm to vibrato and shifting from different positions. I like to have students playing repertoire as soon as possible and I find Barbara Barber’s “Solo’s for Young Violists/Violinists” to be great for beginners because the music starts off at the beginner level and gets more and more advanced as the books progress. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I have a "less talk, more play" approach to music. People learn instruments because they want to play music, and that is always the focus in my lessons. While some instructors incessantly talk about theory, history, and other music concepts, I prefer to keep the talking to a minimum and have my students play their instrument as much as possible. I also tend to move at a quick pace, but I always adapt my pacing to meet the needs of the student. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I prefer to teach using the Suzuki books, since I believe it is a well rounded learning of fun music while teaching technique and musical abilities. I expect my students to practice at least 6 times a week. My students are encouraged to practice by ear, to encourage the love for music. If the student is more advanced, they will begin working on Carl Flesch Scales and Wolfhart etudes. I will also hand out music based on the student passion be it movie theme songs, Christian, or Celtic. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola Recorder Fiddle Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion

I strongly believe that every person can succeed in music given proper attention and opportunity, and therefore focus my lessons differently for individual students according to their skills and interests. For beginning students, unless they are adults or already proficient in another instrument, I always start with my favorite method books to ensure the fundamentals are firmly established. I usually realy on Alfred's Basic Piano Course, Strictly Strings, Suzuki, or Essental Elements depending on the instrument I'm teaching. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I love to teach! I believe my Grandmother's pedagogical influence has had deep impact on my musical journey. The art of teaching is a challenge which I enjoy very much. I began to teach privately as a teenager and have continued to do so both as a private instructor and as a faculty member of several music schools. I also had the privilege of directing a string chamber orchestra! I like to provide the opportunity for students to perform both as solo players and in ensemble groups via private recitals and/or competitions. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

I started on violin in 4th grade and switched to viola in 6th grade.  I was involved in private lessons, youth orchestras, competitions, City, District, Regional and All State orchestras while I was growing up.  In 1991 I graduated from the State University of New York with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Music.  From there I attended Carnegie Mellon University and received my Music Education Certification in 1995.  I received my Masters in Music in 2000 from the University of Denver. Read More