Viola Lessons in Jackson Heights, NY

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: Violin Viola

I believe every student needs a comfortable, fun and non-judgmental environment to thrive. My main goal is to help them achieve their goals (passing exams, getting a scholarship, joining an orchestra, performing at school, playing their favorite pop songs at home, etc) and to enjoy the journey. I am easy-going and understanding but I expect all my students to practise from one lesson to the next and I always set clear and realistic goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

As an instructor, its important to me that my students are developing both their skills and their love for music at an equal rate. I do this by assigning exercises and material that will be both rewarding and fun for the student. I also set timely goals so that they have something to look forward to in their next lesson. During my lessons, I also do a lot of mirroring (showing how I play a certain passage with my instrument) so that they can visualize the proper implementation of a passage. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I will vary my methods based on the individual student. For students between 3 and 7, I will use the Suzuki method, which in my experience is best for students of that age. For beginners after that, I will use method books and repertoire that not only addresses the students technical and musical development at that point in time, but is also fun and enjoyable to play. I encourage students to play in their school or community orchestra and will assist and encourage students to play in chamber ensembles. Read More

Instruments: Viola

I was first introduced to viola through the Suzuki method, and so I am extremely familiar and comfortable with that method and have mostly taught that method as well. If the student is in school, as mentioned above, I will usually start by seeing what they need to learn and have been doing/learning there, and work from that point. For students more advanced or wanting to learn outside of the Suzuki method, I have many "starter" books at my home that I am happy to teach from for learning notes, rhythms, and other short songs, and will suggest etude books and scale books, such as Carl Flesch. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I set different goals for each student. I realize that every student learns at a different pace and has special ways of comprehending the information. I want to push the student to work hard, but would never give them more than they can handle. I want my students to love music and look forward to practicing each day. I look for different ways to inspire them and motivate them to want to learn more. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching experience is quite varied. I've taught young children as a member of Mimi Zweig's pedagogy classes, and I currently teach group classes to 3rd-5th graders here in NYC. I've taught chamber music to teenagers in Indiana University's Summer String Academy and to adult learners in Montreal. I encourage regular practice and strong fundamentals, but I also sincerely think that although there are many ways to teach and to learn, the best ways always are enjoyable. Read More