Viola Lessons in Finksburg, MD

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching style for young beginners is fun and encouraging. I stay very positive to encourage and motivate them. There is nothing like seeing young students staying focused and playing very confidently and feel good about themselves. That is very rewarding to me. I also show them how to practice with a clear demonstration and I like to build them up with good basics like good intonation, accurate rhythm and counting observing the dynamics and bowings carefully. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I've also been involved with various music festivals, including the Manhattan International Music Festival, where I customized lessons for young musicians and organized enriching masterclasses. In my private music studio in Shanghai and Germany, I've taught both violin and viola, covering a wide range of repertoire and essential techniques. Furthermore, my leadership experience as the Principal Viola in orchestras such as The Four Seasons Chamber Music Orchestra of DC, Orchestra Academia China, Suzhou Symphony Orchestra, and others has deepened my understanding of orchestral dynamics, interpretation, and the importance of maintaining a high level of professionalism. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Having started playing violin at the age of 5, sharing my love of music has been an enormous part of my life. I originally come from Serbia, where I obtained my BM in Violin Performance at The University of Belgrade.  I continued my graduate studies in Toronto, Canada, where I finished an Artist Diploma program at The Royal Conservatory of Music.  In 2013 I graduated in Masters of Music at The Catholic University of America, in Washington DC. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Recorder

For my youngest students, age 7 and under, I begin with Adventures in Violinland, a wonderful method written by Shirley Givens, instructor at Peabody Preperatory. This teaches note reading with a solfegg system. It has a strong emphasis on technique. For beginners ages 8 and up, I use either Essential Elements or Sound Innovations, usually matching it with whatever the school district uses that the student lives in. As the students progress, I use the Suzuki repertoire as well as various scale and technique books. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My belief is that performed music should be fun for the performer as well as the audience. I will always give my best effort when I teach but students are also required to put in effort if they want to learn and become passionate about music. I encourage my students to have regular practice routines but make sure they are not overwhelmed. When I teach I also like to ask my students questions (such as how much bow do you need for this note? or what is the best approach to make this phrase more expressive with your left-hand?) so that students can learn to come up with solutions by themselves and can feel comfortable practicing without my always being there to guide them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Music Keyboard

I started leading choirs as a teenager and have grown from there. I've taught theory and composition internationally (See a final project video on my profile), and taught violin and viola here in the States. I like to emphasize the importance of theory and composition throughout all lessons, as well as learning by play - music is an art of expression first and foremost. Anyone can learn to read music and play it aloud, but it is only those brave enough to relate it to themselves that truly become musicians. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle Music

I consider myself a versatile educator, adapting my teaching to meet the individual needs and aspirations of each student. I prioritize cultivating musical independence, empowering students to make well-informed decisions in their playing. Drawing on my background studying diverse violin schools, I guide students in gathering a wide range of information and applying it practically. Be it refining technique, interpreting complex compositions, or overcoming performance anxiety, my approach is flexible and tailored. Read More