Viola Lessons in Silver Spring, MD

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

My teaching style is enthusiastic and caring. I believe that the best way to encourage students to practice is to teach music that they want to play, to have them perform, to challenge them with beautiful music and to use technology to support practicing. "Natasha is really a superb teacher. She has wonderful rapport with my children and is very patient. My daughter and son have progressed tremendously in a short period, and more importantly enjoy their lessons. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle Music

My teaching philosophy revolves around nurturing musical independence among my students. It is my goal that they can confidently approach a piece, making informed decisions about both technical and musical aspects. To facilitate this, I employ creative mnemonic techniques, transforming complex concepts into catchy and memorable phrases. By integrating multiple schools of music and violin playing, including Russian, French, and American traditions, I provide students with a holistic foundation. My approach blends technical exercises inherited from pedagogues like Ivan Galamian with interpretive insights gained from world-class musicians. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

I have been sharing my love of music and teaching students for more than 10 years. I strongly believe in encouraging my students to practice and set up goals that would help them grow. These goals include learning a new challenging piece, getting prepared for a recital, audition or competition. I believe in helping my students with learning how to practice on their own and being able to work independently from our lessons. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Whether it's a young beginner or an advanced adult student, I adapt my teaching materials and repertoire selection accordingly. Foundational Skills: I prioritize the development of fundamental skills, including proper posture, bowing technique, finger placement, and intonation. These basics form the bedrock upon which students can build their musical abilities. Repertoire Diversity: I introduce students to a wide range of musical genres, from classical to contemporary, to keep lessons engaging and inspire a love for music. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My belief is that performed music should be fun for the performer as well as the audience. I will always give my best effort when I teach but students are also required to put in effort if they want to learn and become passionate about music. I encourage my students to have regular practice routines but make sure they are not overwhelmed. When I teach I also like to ask my students questions (such as how much bow do you need for this note? or what is the best approach to make this phrase more expressive with your left-hand?) so that students can learn to come up with solutions by themselves and can feel comfortable practicing without my always being there to guide them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

My goal is to show students the joy and benefit of music in our everyday lives. To enjoy your own music, you have to practice. Nothing is important than practice. Practice! Practice! Practice! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. To achieve certain progress, I always give some homework for practice and encourage to do it. Especially younger students, I encourage their parents check homework together. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I try to cater to the each student's particular needs. For beginning students that are children I typically start with the Essential Elements Strings Book 1 in combination with Suzuki first book. As every student progresses at a different pace, I adjust my teaching curriculum accordingly. Having that in mind, I decide on the next step, usually some solo repertoire, as well as some more etudes and scales.  For adults, I tend to go with what they are particularly interested in, as well as incorporating learning basic music reading and playing skills. Read More