Viola Lessons in Fairview, PA

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

For younger students (less than 5), I think Suzuki method would probably work best! We would focus on small exercises to establish good posture and sound while learning mainly through imitation and listening. When a student is able, I do encourage some theory as to read music fluently and gain understanding of basic musical concepts. At this age, I also encourage weekly technical exercises (scales, etudes) to improve ability and fluidity of playing. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I'm a passionate and motivated teacher who loves working with students and sharing my love for music. In 2007, I graduated from Pensacola Christian College with a minor in music with a performance focus on the viola. I had the opportunity to study under Dr. Alberto Jaffe, world renowned violinist, and Dr. John Wilcox. I had the opportunity to play several years in multiple orchestras during my college years and multiple ensembles, as well as playing for several smaller groups around town for special services. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Two of my favorite things to do are playing music and sharing my passion for music with other people. I graduated in 2016 with a Bachelor of Music degree at Florida State University and I received my Masters of Music in Viola Performance at Penn State in 2019. As someone who has been a contracted member of professional symphonies, played in rock bands, and performed in jazz ensembles, I believe that I have a wide and unique range of experience playing music. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

I started teaching while I was a graduate student at Carnegie Mellon University.  I taught part time private lessons and worked for a Saturday Morning music program teaching Strings and Music Theory.  I have taught in public schools for 12 years teaching strings/orchestra to elementary, middle and high school students.  I have taught students individually, in small groups and in large groups and orchestras.  I have adjudicated at competitions and festivals and taught private lessons in violin, cello and viola over the last 20 years. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola

In all of my teaching, I combine my students' interests with the leading pedagogy practices in string education to develop the foundational skills of the instrument as well as a fondness for it. There are several method books that I use such as Suzuki, Schroeder's Cello Etudes, and Fiddler's Philharmonic, however, I tailor each lesson path to each student based on student interest as well as proper sequencing. I generally start with these method books, especially for cello, for beginning students. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin

I have developed for seven years as one of the most atractive professors for the System of Youth Orchestras of Venezuela (El Sistema) and the Simon Bolivar Conservatory. It aimed to develop the artistic and intellectual capacity of children and young people through the music academy. Some of my students are now part of the most important orchestras in the country such as Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra of Venezuela, Teresa Carreño Symphony Orchestra, Youth Orchestra of Caracas and some others have already won scholarships to study abroad. Read More