Viola Lessons in Somers, NY

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

For violin and viola students, I use All For Strings for beginners, and for more advanced students, use various books, including the Suzuki book. Fun and learning, are the key! And, if a student wants some pointers on how to write a song, I am quite experienced in that, having written several Off Broadway kid's shows, including my popular, "The Everyday Life Of Kids", which played throughout the Westchester NY school system. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I will vary my methods based on the individual student. For students between 3 and 7, I will use the Suzuki method, which in my experience is best for students of that age. For beginners after that, I will use method books and repertoire that not only addresses the students technical and musical development at that point in time, but is also fun and enjoyable to play. I encourage students to play in their school or community orchestra and will assist and encourage students to play in chamber ensembles. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

It is extremely important to set realistic goals for each student. I accomplish this by isolating each issue and not trying to spend one lesson addressing everything. Instead of overwhelming the student, I try to set realistic and obtainable goals for each student while retaining the challenge. As the student improves, I gradually start setting more challenging goals according to each student's ability. When the student improves, (s)he becomes more motivated to learn more, which is crucial for continuous development. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Ialwaystellmystudentsthattheycanacheiveanythingtheywantanditisjustamatterofsettinggoals.EveryonedevelopsattheirownpaceandIalwaystrytoidentitywhatisholdingastudentbackfromreachingx22thenextlevel.x22Ialwaysemphasisthepostiveaspectsofastudent'splayingandtrytobuildonwhattheyhavealreadyacheived.Thegoaloftheteacheristoinspirethestudentandalsotailormyinstructiononwhatastudentneedsandwantstoachievewiththeirmusic. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar

As a multi-instrumentalists, I use a cross disciplinary approach even when a student is only learning one instrument. I do make use of method books for beginners, and the specific book depends upon the instrument, but I have my own methods and materials which I utilize in my lessons. Building a repertoire is encouraged, and I use the material to assist in instructing in theory and musical communication. My students are taught to be self-sufficient, by way of practice, study, and cultivating an "ear." Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I am warm and caring, and love to make my students laugh! I find that making mistakes can be much more beneficial than striving for perfection, and use these moments as crucial learning tools for students to move forward. I set goals with, not for, my students, and ask them to self evaluate before I give them my feedback. I provide students with detailed, structured practice plans that work with their schedules, and have high expectations for their time with their instrument (with, or without me). Read More