Viola Lessons in Pacoima, CA

Instruments: Violin Viola

I teach a combination of Suzuki and traditional methods. I grew up as a Suzuki student, but in my professional teaching life have learned to add additional methods into lessons to supplement training. For young, beginner students, I start them off with a method book like "All for Strings," which teaches first by rote. Not long after the students achieve the basic skills of the violin, we incorporate the Suzuki method and note reading. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Flute Drums Bass Guitar Organ Electric Violin Double Bass

I have an interactive yet focused style of teaching. I can(but don't recommend) to use the Suzuki method. I feel that all aspects related to the instruments weigh much importance in teaching the student. However, with the Suzuki method, the student's primary focus is to learn pieces rapidly and climb the level of difficulty as fast as possible. This prevents him/her to fully understand and analyze the piece and lesson and it can also turn the student away from pursuing the instrument further.  Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle

As a student I had many teachers who made me achieve at their pace and with their understanding of what the violin required. Ultimately the classical route did not give me enough freedom to play the way I wanted to. In my work as a teacher I have found that the pursuit of an instrument, though hard work, should fundamentally be enjoyable for the student. Whether it is finding the music that resonates deeply with you, or constructing practice assignments that are clear and achievable within a week, I want to connect with each student I teach and help them to find a regular rhythm in their lessons that keeps them feeling productive. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Electric Violin

When my students first start I start them on the Suzuki method until they get to book 4. While they are learning from that certain method I do encourage students to tell me what songs they enjoy listening to and we will choose easy versions of the song that keeps them motivated and excited. Once my students pass book 4 of Suzuki we start getting advanced music including scale books, etudes, and concertos. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I taught the students from beginners to very advanced college students in traditional classic way. I taught big string classes and private lessons in different levels. I was assistant professor in University of Mississippi for ten years and taught applied cello and string Bass lessons. Many of my students went to further professional studies and started their music career. And also, I have many students who went to other majors in college but still keeping very active in the area of music, playing community orchestra, start their own private chamber music group, become very positive part of their community. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My approach to violin pedagogy is to learn through creating an environment of joy. I find that students become inspired and motivated when they find out that music is not only fun, but that they have the tools within themselves to be their own artists and to accomplish short and long term goals. As your teacher my hope is to be your guide to help unlock you or your child’s full and undeniable potential with their instrument and musical voice. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Mandolin Keyboard

I also have great expertise working with retired active senior citizens. I headed up the gerontology arts division for Orange Coast College/Coastline College and taught music/acting at active senior sites for over 14 years. Many of my current students are retired seniors. I have written several text books on jazz theory, jazz piano, jazz vocal and musicology subjects that are used by schools and universities. As a professor of University of West London: London College of Music (US rep), I am able to offer internationally accredited music performance grades (1-8) for piano (classical, jazz pop), digital keyboard (pop, music industry), voice (musical theatre, opera/classical, pop, rock, jazz). Read More