Viola Lessons in River Forest, IL

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

My teaching style is a balance of a casual and relaxed attitude, and an environment that nonetheless encourages excellence and achievement to the highest level possible. I like to establish a friendly and fun atmosphere where the student feels at ease, but always help my students set goals, and hold them to standards of excellence. I also recognize and value that importance of a student enjoying lessons, and that may sometimes mean that s/he wishes to learn and play music not covered by the books and materials we use for lessons; thus, I encourage students to share with me any such music they want to work on, and we then incorporate it into our lessons. Read More

Instruments: Viola

“Talent” is a widely misunderstood concept. As a teacher, I don't believe talent is born. Talent is developed as an artful skill. This skill is made through practice: concentrated sessions of self awareness, mindful repetition, and craft. Anyone can learn how to play an instrument with the right mindset and the right instruction. My lesson plans are based on what goals and interests the student has, while also keeping in mind long term progress in technique for bodily ease. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have been teaching children of all ages and performing around the world- most recently in Vienna, Austria- for over a decade. I also had the opportunity to work as a music director for a youth orchestra in Italy which improved my skill in orchestral direction as well as working with large ensembles. Teaching has always been my greatest passion mainly due to the great pedagogues that have guided and inspired me to pass on the invaluable knowledge and skill to future aspiring musicians. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I started teaching in high school, with my very own private students, and coached non-music major ensembles during my undergraduate degree in addition to receiving pedagogy training. As many performers do, I began as a reluctant teacher, but quickly realized that teaching is extremely rewarding and fun! I make sure that the students are enjoying the lessons while pushing them to play as well as they can. I find it difficult to suppress my passion for my instrument and for music, and I think that this rubs off on my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Music Keyboard

Every student progresses at their own pace. So many factors will determine progress such as age, experience, instrument, and learning style. I do what is necessary to adapt to these different things to ensure my students are learning what is necessary, progressing, and still having fun all at the same time! I also ensure to incorporate music theory as part of my course as well so students are as well-rounded as possible. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin

For beginning students (pre-Suzuki), I like to take material from different method books and even write my own songs. This way, each student has their own, individualized curriculum to help with technique or material that they find to be difficult. Once the student has a good grasp of the fundamentals, I like to use Suzuki books. I like to use the Suzuki method for younger beginners because it can be more challenging to learn to read notes, but I encourage note reading for older students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar

I adjust my teaching based on the particular student. For adults I take the lessons in whatever direction they like. Subjects covered are more often than not dictated by the student's interest. For children I do take their interests into account but also guide them towards getting better at their instrument. Reading music is an important thing for all my students. Read More