Viola Lessons in Westminster, MD

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

My main goal is to create a positive, productive and enjoyable learning experience for my students. In my lessons, I am helping my students to learn not only the particular technique or element but some aspects of music history as well as composers' background and important facts about musical styles. Each semester I have a recital for my students where they can share their progress and excitement about the lessons and music. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Recorder

For my youngest students, age 7 and under, I begin with Adventures in Violinland, a wonderful method written by Shirley Givens, instructor at Peabody Preperatory. This teaches note reading with a solfegg system. It has a strong emphasis on technique. For beginners ages 8 and up, I use either Essential Elements or Sound Innovations, usually matching it with whatever the school district uses that the student lives in. As the students progress, I use the Suzuki repertoire as well as various scale and technique books. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

Hello, and welcome to my studio! I love to make music with my students! I teach technique, theory and performance by using music that appeals to them. I always look for new ways to teach. My goal is to create a comfortable yet challenging learning environment in which every student is successful. 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. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

My beginning students usually start with the Suzuki method. However, if a student is using a different book with their school music teacher, I always try to incorporate that book in my student's private lessons. In addition, I ask students what they are interested in playing, to give the student a sense of ownership and signifigance in their progress. With adults I am more open to suggestions and requests, basing their lessons more on their interest as well as their progress. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching style for young beginners is fun and encouraging. I stay very positive to encourage and motivate them. There is nothing like seeing young students staying focused and playing very confidently and feel good about themselves. That is very rewarding to me. I also show them how to practice with a clear demonstration and I like to build them up with good basics like good intonation, accurate rhythm and counting observing the dynamics and bowings carefully. 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 Fiddle Music

My experience spans a rich tapestry of teaching roles that have allowed me to engage with students across various age groups and backgrounds. I've conducted masterclasses at esteemed institutions like the University of Northern Iowa and Towson University, instilling my passion for the violin and music education in young minds. My dedication to chamber music extends beyond performance, as I take on the role of Chamber Strings Coordinator and Coach at the Leon Fleisher Academy, overseeing curriculum design, repertoire selection, and fostering musical growth in chamber settings. Read More