Viola Lessons in Stony Brook, NY

Instruments: Violin Viola

I am a very laid-back teacher. My belief is that music is fun. I encourage my students to have fun. Too many teachers make music all about practice and drilling. While practicing and drilling is definitely a part of learning, it is not the end-all be-all. Music needs to be enjoyed for what it is - fun! I have had teachers who have sucked the joy out of learning for me, and I strive to make sure that never happens for my students. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Piano Voice

My teaching style is strongly based on the constructivist method of learning. What that means is I prefer to help students by means of demonstrating skills( Left/ right-hand technique, excerpts from music, etc.), to scaffold their learning, and to help them overcome challenges by means of critical thinking and problem-solving. Setting practice goals and also keeping a practice journal is an effective way to keep students on track with their playing development. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

This teaches the student to be prepared, confident and expressive in their playing. There is a special bond that takes place when playing chamber music. They have to be certain in what they are playing and communicate with other musicians what they are trying to get across and portray in any particular piece. This is important even in the young students after they have learned and feel comfortable with the basic technique of their instrument. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Viola Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am a NYC-based humanitarian filmmaker, dancer, musician, carpenter and teacher. I speak English, German, Catalan, and I can get by in Spanish. A dual Austrian/American citizen, I am authorized to work in the United States. From kindergarten to high school, I attended a Rudolph Steiner school, which laid my foundations in art, music and carpentry. In high school, I managed the school theater lighting system and wrote a thesis on stage lighting. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

My teaching style is very organized, structured, but also with a creative approach. I believe in having fun while learning, but I do hold young artists accountable to accomplishing their weekly assignments/goals. My style has been developed over three decades, and I tailor my approach by getting to know each student individually. I take time to observe and understand the student's thinking style, learning style, method of communication, strengths, weaknesses, and motivation. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning or young students (under age 8), music-related games are incorporated into lessons to encourage positive growth, rather than thinking of playing an instrument as a "chore". Small assignments are expected to be completed weekly, so that the child feels a sense of accomplishment and progress. For older or more advanced students, lessons are structured by a regimen of scales, exercises, and classical pieces. If the student so chooses, classical pieces can be exchanged for pop or contemporary music. 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