Viola Lessons in Irvington, NJ

Instruments: Viola

As I get to know the student better, their interest, and what they seem to indiviually need, I can then help them with the physcial aspects of playing and give my own input on musical ideas, bowings, etc.  Since attending Eastman, I have studied specifically with teachers who studied under the great violist Karen Tuttle. Her teaching philosophy is all geared towards playing tension/injury free, therefore relaxing into your own sound and playing to be the healthiest and best violist you can be. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Keyboard

I believe in teaching future string musicians there is only one way to make the best sound and teaching how to do this from the beginning. I want the students to understand how their instrument works by demystifying the mechanics. Once the student knows how to use the instrument, they can then discover the music and their voice in the music. For string instruments, I use the Suzuki books and Artistry in Strings method. 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

For beginning students who are children, I typically begin by introducing them to the various parts of the instrument, along with the basics of technique and position. New notes and concepts would be introduced through learning familiar songs and pieces. All parents are encouraged to attend their child's violin lessons so that they can aid practice sessions. For adults, I try to find out what the student is most interested in learning, and devise a plan with the student accordingly in order to keep the lessons engaging and fun. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Keyboard

As Shinichi Suzuki said, musical harmony breeds social harmony; to learn and make music together helps us all. For this I have grown the string and choral programs in Elmhurst's 51st Avenue Academy; taught violin, viola, and chamber music at the Queens College Center for Preparatory Studies in Music; led the Stony Brook Pre-College chamber music program; taught strings and chorus in Kiev, Ukraine; taught graduate education courses at Touro College online; and enjoy teaching music at NJ's Calderone School. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle Acoustic Guitar

I love to begin with the Suzuki method but is all dependent upon each individual student and their learning style! My initial priority is to make sure student's understand the fundamentals of violin technique. Along with technique is extensive ear training. This will lead to flexibility such as being able to improvise in a vast amount of genres. This fosters a long and engaging relationship with music and the violin. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

I am a recent graduate of the Monclair State University Music Education Master's program. I also graduated from William Paterson University with a Bachelor of Music in Music Education. My primary instrument is the violin. My main secondary instrument is the piano. I currently perform with the Adelphi Orchestra. I have taught in the New Jersey public school system. I have been teaching private piano and violin lessons for about 6 years. Read More