Viola Lessons in Hulmeville, PA

Instruments: Violin Viola

I am extremely passionate about music and excited to pass my passion on to students.  I have been studying violin since I was 4 years old and it has always been a central part of my life. I graduated from Carnegie Mellon University this past May with a BFA in Violin Performance and Physics.  I enjoy music of all styles and in addition to classical music I play rock and jazz. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 8 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in various studios since then. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

I have ten years experience teaching the violin and viola. I have taught students as young as seven, as well as students at the undergraduate level. I develop challenging goals and practice routines for each individual student based on their own motivations and potential. My own career as a performer and understanding of the competitive nature of classical music performance informs the standards I set for my students. Though I am willing to to provide casual lessons to the amateur or hobbyist, I will mentor serious students to pursue achieve the highest standards. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I generally start with Suzuki Method, Sassmannshaus, and my own methods which I have created over the years. I emphasize the importance of ear training, becuase that is what allows us to know if we are playing correctly. For intermediate and advanced students, we work very heavily on warm ups, scales, etudes, and repertoire. Repertoire is a personal thing, and many of my adult students already have an idea of what they would like to play. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Beginners: Suzuki Methodology up to book 6 with heavy emphasis on technique and fundamentals Intermediate: Standard solo repertoire Mozart, Bach, Haydn, Kabalevsky, with focus on advanced technique (intonation, colle, martele, sautille, etc) (Ideal for students who wish to do PMEA) etudes: wohlfahrt, kreutzer Advanced: Iconic solo repertoire Tchaikovsky, Sibelius, Mendelssohn with focus on musicality (advanced phrasing, expressive shifting, sounding point, bow speed/weight control, smooth bow and string crossings) etudes: Rode, Paganini 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