Viola Lessons in Selden, NY

Instruments: Violin Viola

Playing a string instrument is very difficult and for a student to really flourish as a musician requires that they develop confidence and discipline. I find that the relationship between a music student and teacher is one that develops skills for life, not just musical techniques. I feel very thankful to my own teachers for showing me how powerful my hard work and dedication was, how fun and exciting music can be, and most importantly that their criticisms of my playing always meant that they believed in me. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Electric Violin

After my own experience with it as well as teaching it, Suzuki has great techniques and music for getting students experience in sight-reading, ear training, and memorization. With the youngest students I start with the fundamentals such as naming the different parts of the instrument and some basic rules with notes. Acronyms and games are always the best way to memorize the different rules. I write out detailed lessons plans for each individual student, constructed specifically for their learning process. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginner students, I like to work on positioning the instrument, proper bow hold, and simple string crossing exercises. A great beginners book is the quick steps to note reading. I believe beginner students should be practicing with this book every day. When they are ready to start learning pieces, I really like to use the Suzuki books. This works for both young beginners and adult beginners. For students who are more advanced, I am adamant about them practicing scales and etudes. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

I have been teaching independently since 2004, with experience in classical, Celtic fiddle, bluegrass, rock and improvisation. In addition to private lessons, I have assisted with classes from elementary through high school level at various schools. I plan customized lessons and work with students individually to achieve goals. I like to form real relationships with my students and still stay in touch with students I have not taught for years! It is very rewarding to me to help students find their own voices in music, and I try to provide the tools they will need to be successful in whichever style/field of music they are drawn to. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Synthesizer Double Bass Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

For adolescent beginner piano students I recommend 'John Thompson's Earliest Piano Course'. In this series Books I-III build a strong base upon which a student can specialize in different genre and styles graduating from book III. For adult students beginning I would suggest John Thompon's Adult (or Modern) Piano Course. The pacing of this book is far more accelerated and more in keeping with an adult pace to work with. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle Music

With beginner students, regardless of age, I start with the Suzuki pre-twinkle exercises to build a solid foundation of technique, as well as starting ear training exercises and note reading practice. Once a student has mastered the pre-twinkle fundamentals, I move to the first two Suzuki books, and supplement with etudes tailored to the student's level and musical interests. My philosophy is that learning should be organic and enjoyable, so I do my best to introduce repetitive and uninteresting exercises only when necessary, and to make them as entertaining as possible when I do so. Read More