Viola Lessons in Green Ridge, PA

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with a beginner method such as Essential Elements or Sound Innovations. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. 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: Piano Voice Violin Viola Keyboard

Music is deeply personal; one must get to know each student's own personality, interests, and connections to music. Early on (both in the teaching relationship and in each lesson) one must assess where the student is, as to technical and musical growth, and with the music at hand. Then one finds, models, explains and encourages the next steps the student can achieve. Clear guidance and dialogue about what will happen outside the studio (listening, practice, rehearsal, performance) helps turn the weekly cycle of lessons into an upward spiral of progress, achievement, and reward. Read More

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

I always stress to my students that practice is important, however, it is also important how you practice. This is something that I take the time to instill in all my students. Along with how you practice, how much you practice is also important. One thing I always stress to my students is that it has to be something that you can fit into your schedule. With my adult students this is always more challenging, but I remind them not to be discouraged and to focus on keeping their passion for wanting to learn. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have complemented my music education by performing continuously over the last 20 years, including many cities and stages around the world, from my early years in junior ensembles to The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, Symphony in C orchestra, Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, and the iPalpiti chamber orchestra of international laureates. Probably my greatest blessing and professional accomplishment is being invited to perform as the soloist as well as a chamber and orchestra musician at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall (NYC), Napa Valley Performing Arts Center at Lincoln Theater (CA), Kimmel Center (Philadelphia PA), Walt Disney Hall (Los Angeles CA), John F. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students I start with Suzuki books until about book 5 and then begin to branch out into other repertoire.  I teach students to read music as well as basic theory. I also incorporate playing by ear and improvisation. These are important skills which help students develop into flexible and well rounded musicians.   Read More