Viola Lessons in Richlandtown, PA

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I initially focus on their setup and how to hold the instrument properly. Having this solid foundation helps in the future to avoid injuries and negative habits. After that, I use the Essential Elements books and Suzuki method books as a guideline with supplemental materials. At this point I would also begin introducing solo repertoire appropriate for a first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my teaching according to their level of interest, keeping lessons engaging and fun. Many times that includes playing fiddle tunes, which is very exciting to me too, since I have been involved in Irish culture since I was young. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Keyboard

Music is deeply personal; one must get to know each student's own personality, interests, and connections to music. Early on (both in the teaching relationship and in each lesson) one must assess where the student is, as to technical and musical growth, and with the music at hand. Then one finds, models, explains and encourages the next steps the student can achieve. Clear guidance and dialogue about what will happen outside the studio (listening, practice, rehearsal, performance) helps turn the weekly cycle of lessons into an upward spiral of progress, achievement, and reward. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

The best feeling as a teacher is seeing my students progress and take pride in their playing. I take an individual approach to every student, understanding that each person learns differently and will have different strengths and weaknesses. I always make sure to reward my students for their progress and make sure they know that everything can be achieved with hard work. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass Keyboard

Musical games, singing, clapping, and moving are all part of my musical curriculum for children of this age. I reinforce musical and instrumental concepts through play, so they learn without even realizing it! Middling children (Ages 8-12) can often handle a more rigorous curriculum. Rudiments (scales, arpeggios, etudes) are far more important than songs to teach foundation and technique, but the songs are the 'treat' and definitely the fun part. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I am extremely passionate about music and excited to pass my passion on to students.  I have been studying violin since I was 4 years old and it has always been a central part of my life. I graduated from Carnegie Mellon University this past May with a BFA in Violin Performance and Physics.  I enjoy music of all styles and in addition to classical music I play rock and jazz. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching experience dates back to my undergraduate where I would teach and mentor incoming freshman placed in our studio. During the summers I would teach locally and fill in for past mentors who were on tour. This allowed me the fortune of teaching both beginners and advanced students. I strongly recommend consistent practice as I firmly believe an hour a day far out performs 5-7 on one day. A students growth is mostly contributed to ones own passion and discipline however as long as the student is willing to learn, then I am willing to help nurture their devotion and maturity to allow them to become as good of a instrumentalist that they wish to become. Read More