Viola Lessons in Hampstead, MD

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with violin method book, Essential Elements for Strings to learn the good basics and reading the notes and where to find those notes they just learned on the fingerboard. I also introduce the Suzuki Violin School volume 1 to learn the major songs written for the violin and simply to play more songs than the scales and exercises. For students who are more advanced, I help them their school orchestra music and make sure they are doing very well on top of the class in addition to continuing with the private lesson music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

My main goal is to create a positive, productive and enjoyable learning experience for my students. In my lessons, I am helping my students to learn not only the particular technique or element but some aspects of music history as well as composers' background and important facts about musical styles. Each semester I have a recital for my students where they can share their progress and excitement about the lessons and music. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

My beginning students usually start with the Suzuki method. However, if a student is using a different book with their school music teacher, I always try to incorporate that book in my student's private lessons. In addition, I ask students what they are interested in playing, to give the student a sense of ownership and signifigance in their progress. With adults I am more open to suggestions and requests, basing their lessons more on their interest as well as their progress. 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 Fiddle Music

I am a dedicated musician and educator with a strong belief in the transformative power of music. Holding a Doctorate in Violin Performance from the esteemed Peabody Conservatory, I have been fortunate to study under renowned mentors such as Violaine Melanon, Vadim Gluzman, and Matvei Lieberman. My academic journey has taken me from Baltimore to Chicago to Jerusalem, exposing me to a rich tapestry of musical traditions that I passionately integrate into my teaching approach. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Music Keyboard

All voice students will gain a working knowledge of English, Italian, French, and German basic translations, pronunciation, and performance styles; along with IPA phonetics. Theory and Composition students will work from Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory and William Russo's Composing Music as well as supplemental activities. They will compose both by hand and with Finale. Advanced students will be introduced to symphonic composition, arranging, and orchestration. All students will have a level of ownership to their lessons, guiding them to suite their end goals. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I am comfortable teaching out of various method books. I have primarily used Hal Leonard's Essential Elements for Strings, as well as Alfred's Sound Innovations for Strings. I have also used All for Strings and Artistry in Strings. If a student has a method book already, then I will work with them out of that book. If not, then I like to start with my own supplemental activities (flash cards, worksheets, playing by rote, etc) and build up to using a book. Read More