Viola Lessons in Jackson Heights, NY

Instruments: Violin Viola

I am a very laid-back teacher. My belief is that music is fun. I encourage my students to have fun. Too many teachers make music all about practice and drilling. While practicing and drilling is definitely a part of learning, it is not the end-all be-all. Music needs to be enjoyed for what it is - fun! I have had teachers who have sucked the joy out of learning for me, and I strive to make sure that never happens for my students. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I believe in the importance of holistic music pedagogy for students at every level. Musicianship requires technical proficiency, music theory training, music history study, and creativity. I prefer to craft unique courses of study for each of my students rather than using popular, one-size-fits-all approaches, such as the Suzuki Method. Though many of these methods have valuable pedagogical insights, I hope my students can have a deep engagement with music, art and creativity that goes beyond technical mastery, a goal that requires a greater flexibility than such methods provide. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Electric Violin

I started my teaching career my sophomore year of college while studying the performing arts. I first began teaching at a music school in Greenwich, CT after being referred by my orchestra conductor. After teaching there for a few months i was then recommended by a fellow teacher to instruct at a school in Darien, CT as well as their sister store where I developed a strong clientele. After teaching for the past six years i know that this is my passion in life. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

I create custom lesson plans for each student based on their level, interests and goals. Typically I start brand new beginners with the basics, learning the parts of the instruments and the notes. Being a very visual learner myself, I enjoy using method books such as the Sassmannshaus series, as they are beautifully illustrated and help to capture and hold young children's attention. In addition to teaching scales and technique, I like to bring in songs that the students enjoy to keep the lessons fun and enjoyable. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

I cater the lessons towards the individual needs of the students.  For beginning students 6 years old and under, I prefer to use Shirley Givens' books, "Adventures In Violinland", along with Suzuki materials through rote memorization.  When the student is 5 or 6 years old or older, I like to use Suzuki materials but supplement with note reading right away.  Also, I love it when a student brings a specific piece of music in that they would like to play, whether it is from the classical repertoire, or jazz, pop, etc. Read More