Viola Lessons in Great River, NY

Instruments: Violin Viola Piano Voice

My teaching style is strongly based on the constructivist method of learning. What that means is I prefer to help students by means of demonstrating skills( Left/ right-hand technique, excerpts from music, etc.), to scaffold their learning, and to help them overcome challenges by means of critical thinking and problem-solving. Setting practice goals and also keeping a practice journal is an effective way to keep students on track with their playing development. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

I create custom lesson plans for each student based on their level, interests and goals. Typically I start brand new beginners with the basics, learning the parts of the instruments and the notes. Being a very visual learner myself, I enjoy using method books such as the Sassmannshaus series, as they are beautifully illustrated and help to capture and hold young children's attention. In addition to teaching scales and technique, I like to bring in songs that the students enjoy to keep the lessons fun and enjoyable. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

I believe in teaching fundamental principles of technique that can be applied universally, and I encourage students to focus on one basic idea at a time. Scales, arpeggios, etudes and other exercises are an important part of daily practice, reinforced by weekly technique classes. In the study of technique, it is critical that students set attainable goals for themselves, and I help them to organize their practice time with this in mind. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I am a fun and easy-going instructor and I love working with people. In 2015, I graduated from SUNY Fredonia with a Bachelor of Music degree in Viola Performances. Asides from viola, I also play piano and drums at local churches. I currently teach at Edward R. Murrow High School, so I commute between Brooklyn and Queens and am willing to teach in both areas. Viola and violin are the best instruments I can teach (up to advanced), with cello and bass at a beginner/intermediate level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar

I believe the student is there to find a passion. It is so important to find love for the art, and this is what I try to provide. A lead-by-example approach is the core of what I do. I "draw" the student toward their own voice. It is imperative to help them find their own "style." The greatest musicians are true originals; and so I do not encourage my students to follow in my footsteps, but to blaze their own trails. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

When working with younger children, I typically begin with the Suzuki method in order to establish strong musical and technical fundamentals. The Suzuki curriculum is also popular across many music programs in New York, so it provides beginning violinists an opportunity to play music with their peers. For adolescents and adults, I place an earlier emphasis on designing a curriculum based on their musical interests, with equal focus devoted to technique. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have taught violin in private Catholic schools for four years and have taught privately for over 12 years. I am on faculty at Summertrios and the Lake Placid Chamber Music Institute, which are adult amateur chamber music camps. My students have ranged in age from 3 all the way to 83, so I know and understand that there are numerous methods and techniques that go into teaching. I focus on what the individual student needs rather than rely on one particular method over the other. Read More