Viola Lessons in Mount Vernon, NY

Instruments: Violin Viola

The best part about teaching is seeing students grow as musicians and develop their own musical style and instincts. I try to teach in a way that highlights how, often, improvements can be made instantly, but on the other side, how hard work and diligent practice lead to growth over time. While learning violin or viola, students should be physically comfortable (because the instrument is very awkward at first!), and they should feel able to ask questions and receive expert explanations. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have taught violin in private Catholic schools for four years and have taught privately for over 12 years. I am on faculty at Summertrios and the Lake Placid Chamber Music Institute, which are adult amateur chamber music camps. My students have ranged in age from 3 all the way to 83, so I know and understand that there are numerous methods and techniques that go into teaching. I focus on what the individual student needs rather than rely on one particular method over the other. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle Music

In my lessons, I balance technique with musicality; though learning the violin requires discipline, I maintain a comfortable, friendly atmosphere while pushing pupils to achieve results. As a teacher I prioritize inspiration while providing structure for growth and flexibility to accommodate individual needs. This means setting realistic goals, regular practice routines, and acknowledging accomplishments, preferably in a recital or performance. I try to pass on my own passion for music while nurturing my students' interests in a safe environment that cultivates growth and progress. 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

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 Electric Violin

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with introducing into base elements of music theory. From that point I try to determine the level of perception of music and coordination of movements with the instrument by the student. After determining the level of perception, I begin to develop an individual training program for each student. Thus, I select the optimal learning conditions and productivity of classes with my students, depending on their individual qualities. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Clarinet Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Double Bass Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I like to make learning an instrument an enjoyable experience and allow students to progress at their own pace.  I also introduce them to different styles of music such as classical, folk, Broadway musicals as well as popular songs.  In addition, I teach students new skills and techniques to enhance their playing abilities. I encourage my students to practice, ask questions about the music and how it should be played with respect to the technique and expression required to perform a piece of music effectively. Read More