Viola Lessons in Haskell, NJ

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Electric Violin Music Keyboard

For beginning students, I typically start with my method based on a combination of the Suzuki method, a base of the European School, and my intuition and vision of each student. 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: Viola

I am a 25 year old graduate of Manhattan School of Music, studying with Karen Ritscher. I attended the last two years of high school at Interlochen Arts Academy in Michigan, where I studied with David Holland, and moved on to do my undergraduate degree at Eastman School of Music under the tutelage of Carol Rodland. I recently won a job with the Glens Falls Symphony in upstate NY and have performed as principal/first stand of various orchestras. 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 Cello Viola Double Bass

I adjust my private instruction based on student interests- if a student is into composing or using programs like finale or garageband, we construct lesson content around these interests. There's always the inclusion of music theory, at all levels of experience, because I feel that it is necessary for students to understand how the music is created and why in order to become better performers and musicians. I never let a student let a bad day get in the way of having a productive lesson- I like to touch base on how they're doing, and if things aren't going so well, we will always be able to find something positive that's going on in the lesson. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. 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. 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: Piano Violin Viola

My teaching style is very organized, structured, but also with a creative approach. I believe in having fun while learning, but I do hold young artists accountable to accomplishing their weekly assignments/goals. My style has been developed over three decades, and I tailor my approach by getting to know each student individually. I take time to observe and understand the student's thinking style, learning style, method of communication, strengths, weaknesses, and motivation. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle Acoustic Guitar

I also encourage my students to memorize each piece of music. For the grade-school students, this can help them build the tools and confidence necessary to succeed in the classroom outside of music. Music education can be useful in all areas of one's life. Performance: I've been performing with the violin for nearly 20 years. I've played with the Hershey Symphony, Penn State's Philharmonic Orchestra, various chamber groups, and many types of bands across a large variety of genres. Read More