Viola Lessons in Glen Ridge, NJ

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

I have extensive experience as a private teacher (25+ years). I teach cello, violin/viola, and piano and have taught students ages 5-65. I also have prepared students for specialized middle school and high school auditions, pre-college programs, and other auditions. In addition to private teaching, currently, I teach group string classes in Harmony Program NYC. Since I play the piano I'm often the accompanist for my students' recitals. My students are encouraged to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own original material, so they can feel good about their accomplishments and stay motivated to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Keyboard

I set up each lesson of what and how to practice at home. So whatever we do in the lesson, is what you are to do in your personal practice, making it super easy! I suggest each students sits with the instrument at least 3 days a week, not including lesson day. I give you fun and easy warm ups to explore how to use the instrument. Then we work on fun pieces to explore the many beautiful sounds of your instrument and your voice as musician. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

This is one reason why I believe personal instruction (rather than learning from books or through online resource) is almost a requirement for progressing quickly on violin and viola. I always try to acknowledge my students accomplishments and push them to become the best musicians they can be. At the same time, I recognize that each student learns at a different pace and for different reasons. As a slow learner myself growing up, I believe that everyone can learn how to play great music with good instruction. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

It is extremely important to set realistic goals for each student. I accomplish this by isolating each issue and not trying to spend one lesson addressing everything. Instead of overwhelming the student, I try to set realistic and obtainable goals for each student while retaining the challenge. As the student improves, I gradually start setting more challenging goals according to each student's ability. When the student improves, (s)he becomes more motivated to learn more, which is crucial for continuous development. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Electric Violin Keyboard

I like to keep my teaching style a balance between being strict but also patient when needed and keeping it fun! I like to have open communication with the student or parents of the student to figure out what kind of teaching style they might prefer. If you want to be challenged and pushed, I can provide more strict instruction to make sure your goals are being met. If a student or their parents prefer to take it easy and just have a good time learning a new instrument, I will also be on board with that! Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Viola Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I draw inspiration largely from my Rudolf Steiner-inspired pre-college education and my Carl Orff-inspired higher education. Waldorf/Steiner education "emphasizes the role of imagination in learning, striving to integrate holistically the intellectual, practical, and artistic development of pupils" while the Orff Approach "combines music, movement, drama, and speech into lessons that are similar to child's world of play." Read More