Viola Lessons in Furlong, PA

Instruments: Violin Viola

Michael W. is a violinist whose approach to technical growth is built from the Juilliard school of Ivan Galamian and Dorothy DeLay, combined with the Russian school of Mikhail Kopelman. Michael has won numerous awards and performed in many renowned locations including the Mann Center as well as the Kimmel Center. He has won or placed in several competitions, including the Voorhees Concerto Competition, the Schadt Summer Strings Competition, and The Young Classical Virtuosos of Tomorrow Competition. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Fiddle Keyboard

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 18 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 5 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I initially focus on their setup and how to hold the instrument properly. Having this solid foundation helps in the future to avoid injuries and negative habits. After that, I use the Essential Elements books and Suzuki method books as a guideline with supplemental materials. At this point I would also begin introducing solo repertoire appropriate for a first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my teaching according to their level of interest, keeping lessons engaging and fun. Many times that includes playing fiddle tunes, which is very exciting to me too, since I have been involved in Irish culture since I was young. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 8 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in various studios since then. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Electric Violin Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I feel that if I want to be effective in how I teach, I always need to keep an open mind and even change the way I do things to cater to the individual student. My job is to be here for the student in whatever capacity they need me. I can push them really hard and really fast, or I can move as slow as they need to. I never liked having a teacher that yelled at me or said words I found discouraging.....it certainly didn't make me look forward to going to the lessons. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass Keyboard

The most important over-arching philosophy in ALL of my teaching, is INDIVIDUAL CURRICULUM. Every student is a unique human being, bringing unique perspective, experiences, talents, and flaws. I adjust all curriculum based on the needs of their students, in order to play up their strengths and address their flaws. My curriculum is also unique in that it values student input much higher than many people who teach strictly from the classical method. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I generally start with Suzuki Method, Sassmannshaus, and my own methods which I have created over the years. I emphasize the importance of ear training, becuase that is what allows us to know if we are playing correctly. For intermediate and advanced students, we work very heavily on warm ups, scales, etudes, and repertoire. Repertoire is a personal thing, and many of my adult students already have an idea of what they would like to play. Read More