Viola Lessons in Saint Davids, 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: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I generally start with Suzuki Method, Sassmannshaus, and my own methods which I have created over the years. I emphasize the importance of ear training, becuase that is what allows us to know if we are playing correctly. For intermediate and advanced students, we work very heavily on warm ups, scales, etudes, and repertoire. Repertoire is a personal thing, and many of my adult students already have an idea of what they would like to play. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

I am a strings teacher, teaching privately for 10 years and in public schools for 7. I graduated from Elizabethtown College with a Bachelors of Music in Music Education, with a concentration in violin. I am currently pursuing my Masters in Orchestral Conducting at Messiah College. Strings students can expect to improve week to week in their technique. I teach students strong foundational techniques in order to develop their abilities. I use a mixture of both technical exercises and repertoire to help any student to play with freedom, confidence, and expression. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Electric Violin Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

You can not use a "one size fits all" kind of approach when teaching an instrument. It is important to me that the student is involved in creating their musical journey, which means each lesson I teach and the way that I teach it will be different. I understand that not everyone learns the same way, and what may work for one student may not work for another. One of the things that has made me a better teacher is that I learn from my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Fiddle Keyboard

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 18 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 5 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Keyboard

I am a caring, intuitive, and experienced musician and teacher. Small-group situations such as studio lessons or chamber music groups find me at my happiest and most fulfilled. I have premiered exciting new works at NYU's Tenri Center, at Stony Brook, Bennington College, Queens College's Aaron Copland School, the LI Composers Alliance, and my alma mater Indiana University. I especially enjoy varied religious settings, for example as concertmaster of the holiday orchestra at St. Read More