Viola Lessons in Russell, IL

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: Piano Voice Violin Viola

For piano I use the Alfred series, and for violin and viola I use a combination of Essential Elements and Suzuki books.  As students advance I introduce additional solo repertoire.  My voice students learn from a variety of sources.  I usually start with a song they know well and work from there.  Students also learn a variety of warm-ups and sight-singing techniques.   Read More

Instruments: Viola

For beginning students, I primarily use scale cycle, and some of Suzuki Music to start with the ear opening to how the sound or melody work can be done and see how it can be applied from the scale work we do on the technical practice. I try to find what student want from the overall lesson time because that set up the different goal for different student. When the student enters in the intermediate level, I try to find a little longer literature for student to learn in long term goal, and expanding students music literature. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Viola

Hello future students! I am a happy, caring, and kind teacher who balances these traits with a serious expectationfor students topractice and be willing to learn new things. In 2000, I graduated from The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Education. Currently I am working on two different Masters Degrees-one in Music History and the other in Education. Teaching private music lessons along with teaching in the musical classroom for 14 years hasencouraged me toexperience students from all different age groups and all walks of life. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Music

I love using the Suzuki method for skill building, but I also believe that students should be musically literate! I utilize supplemental books, such as "I Can Read Music," Essential Elements, and other sight-reading materials to encourage note-reading from the get-go. All of my students, including those who are 4 years old read notes. I emphasize etudes (studies), scales, warm-ups, physical stretches, and favorite songs of my students as part of a balanced repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I tailor my approach to each student to make sure that:1.) The student is getting exactly what he/she wants out of the lessons.2.) The lessons are an appropriate difficulty for the student.3.) A student's strengths and weaknesses are being addressed with a tailor-made lesson plan and long-term goals Depending on the student's level, I utilize Suzuki materials in a way that is tailored to the childs abilities and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

I first began teaching as an undergraduate college student in 2002. One of my childhood piano teachers invited me to teach violin, viola, and cello in her studio of primarily piano students. A short time later, after being hired as an accompanist at a local string studio, I was hired as a string teacher within the studio, where I taught for several years. Over the next fifteen years, my teaching continued in these two settings: studio teaching, as well as private lessons given in my home or the home of my students. Read More