Viola Lessons in Thurmont, MD

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: Piano Violin Viola Recorder

I began student teaching in the late 90’s when I was in high school. I continued to teach on the weekends throughout college and graduate school at Joyful Sounds School of Music. While studying String Pedagogy at Temple University, I taught for the Community Music Scholars Program, a program in conjunction with the Philadelphia public schools allowing low income students to have private lessons at a reduced rate. After graduate school, I continued to teach at Joyful Sounds School of Music and started my own home studio. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I incorporate solo repertoire, ensemble playing, and even student compositions when appropriate. Suzuki and Hans Viola Method: For beginners, I often start with the Suzuki method, which emphasizes ear training and gradual progression. Additionally, I've developed my own teaching materials, the "Hans Viola Method," to provide a structured and comprehensive approach to learning the viola. Scale Mastery: Scales are essential for developing technique and understanding music theory. I place a strong emphasis on scale practice and offer my nine-book series on Violin Scales to help students master this vital aspect of playing. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with violin method book, Essential Elements for Strings to learn the good basics and reading the notes and where to find those notes they just learned on the fingerboard. I also introduce the Suzuki Violin School volume 1 to learn the major songs written for the violin and simply to play more songs than the scales and exercises. For students who are more advanced, I help them their school orchestra music and make sure they are doing very well on top of the class in addition to continuing with the private lesson music. 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 Voice Violin Viola Music Keyboard

My approach to teaching is to come in with a detailed plan I'm ready to throw out the window. Music should be fun! Sometimes we have to work hard to make sure it is fun for the long run, but work doesn't need to be unenjoyable. For the kids and kids at heart, I incorporate movement games and Orff instruments. Those that consider themselves to be adults will have a bit more sedate fun and games. Read More