Viola Lessons in Englewood Cliffs, NJ

Instruments: Violin Viola

I am a professional violinist and violist based in the Tri-State area with a passion for helping people discover and accomplish their musical goals. I have been playing the violin for over 25 years and I feel very fortunate to be able to do what I really love. I hold a Master's and Bachelor's Degree in Violin Performance from the Manhattan School of Music. I have had the great fortune of performing at world renowned venues such as Carnegie Hall, Alice Tully Hall, and Avery Fisher Hall in New York, as well as Constitution Hall in Washington DC. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Clarinet

I'm a passionate and motivated instructor who loves sharing the transformative power of classical music with students. I am currently working towards getting a Bachelor's of Music Performance at New York University. I've had the privilege of playing with orchestras and chamber ensembles in amazing spaces like Carnegie Hall, Weill recital hall, and Jazz at Lincoln Center. There's something truly magical about sharing a beloved piece of music with an audience for the first time, and this is what excites me most about performing. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Before anything, I find out what the goal of the lesson is. I always want to know what the students want, so I can plan around them. The lesson will always be about the student! After discussing the goal of the lesson, we will find repertoire, etudes, or other materials that either benefit the student technically, or will simply be enjoyable to the student. Since the goal of the student can either be anything, including playing professional recitals, or simply playing a Taylor Swift song from the radio, my priority will be that the student is enjoying their craft. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

In the beginning, students will see more progress than they will later on. After progressing past the basics, they will begin to synthesize information from lessons and experience to solve unique problems to keep growing musically. Rarely will a teacher have the precise answer for specific "blockade," but I will always provide great insights and ideas that can be very useful to overcome your practice barriers. This process of info synthesis is delicate and time consuming, but it is the most vital part of the learning process. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I will vary my methods based on the individual student. For students between 3 and 7, I will use the Suzuki method, which in my experience is best for students of that age. For beginners after that, I will use method books and repertoire that not only addresses the students technical and musical development at that point in time, but is also fun and enjoyable to play. I encourage students to play in their school or community orchestra and will assist and encourage students to play in chamber ensembles. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Playing a string instrument is very difficult and for a student to really flourish as a musician requires that they develop confidence and discipline. I find that the relationship between a music student and teacher is one that develops skills for life, not just musical techniques. I feel very thankful to my own teachers for showing me how powerful my hard work and dedication was, how fun and exciting music can be, and most importantly that their criticisms of my playing always meant that they believed in me. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginner students, I like to work on positioning the instrument, proper bow hold, and simple string crossing exercises. A great beginners book is the quick steps to note reading. I believe beginner students should be practicing with this book every day. When they are ready to start learning pieces, I really like to use the Suzuki books. This works for both young beginners and adult beginners. For students who are more advanced, I am adamant about them practicing scales and etudes. Read More