Viola Lessons in Wethersfield, CT

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle Music

With beginner students, regardless of age, I start with the Suzuki pre-twinkle exercises to build a solid foundation of technique, as well as starting ear training exercises and note reading practice. Once a student has mastered the pre-twinkle fundamentals, I move to the first two Suzuki books, and supplement with etudes tailored to the student's level and musical interests. My philosophy is that learning should be organic and enjoyable, so I do my best to introduce repetitive and uninteresting exercises only when necessary, and to make them as entertaining as possible when I do so. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

I began piano when I was 3 and violin when I was 9. Music is at the very core of my Soul. People say that I am a born teacher. My info. under Education above should give you a snapshot of my background. I did not list my piano education because I was originally a violin/viola major in college. However I am equally skilled on all 3 instruments. For e.g. the Brahms 2nd piano concerto is in my repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have been teaching violin since my undergraduate days at The University of Connecticut, in their celebrated Suzuki Pedagogi program. From there on to the Hartt School and ever since, with a private studio in my home for 20 years and instructing and designing string programs in the Greater Hartford Area including the Hatford Public School System and Hartford Conservatory also within the East Hartford and Glastonbury school systems. While inviting innovation, my teaching philosophy is steeped in the traditional values of focus and dedication, for which there are no substitutes. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I tend to use the Suzuki Method for my students. I find that it helps create a solid foundation for the student and includes repertoire that is familiar to many. In addition to the Suzuki Method, I like to use etude books, duet books, and sight-reading books for those who are learning how to read music. I also like to incorporate Music Theory for all ages to gain more knowledge of how music works. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

MyteachingexpiencebeganinformallywhenIwasinmiddleschoolinChinahelpingelementaryschoolstudentspracticeandworkontheirtechnique.MyformalteachingexperiencebeganwhenIwasajuniorincollegeandbeganworkingasaprofessionalteacherontheweekend.Ialwaystrytomakemylessonsfunandfocusonthepostiveaspectsofastudent'splaying.Ihavehadtheopportunitytostudywithworld-classsoloistsandmemebersoftheprestigiousorchestrasandIalwaystrytopassonthewordsofwisdomthattheseteachershavegivenme.Iencouragemystudentstofocusontraditionalgoalssuchascompetitionsandfestivals,butalsopursuepopularmusicandnon-classicalmusic.IhavesuccessfullytaughtstudentsofanyageandIamalsoexcitedtoworkwithnewstudentsandhelpthemdiscovertheirfullmusicalability. Read More

Instruments: Voice Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

In voice, I let my students' goals guide their lessons. Whether it be stage performance, studio recording or personal satisfaction, I will use a variety of techniques to help them reach their individual goals. In violin and viola, I teach the Suzuki method combined with some contemporary and fun improvisation. I teach theory, but also how to communicate with musicians in general. I am a huge fan of the electric violin/fiddle and am comfortable teaching tecniques and about the equipment needed to play. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums French Horn Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn

I normally use the Standard of Excellence method books for most of my students; however, I am open minded to adjusting to each individual student's musical needs, whether it be Jazz, Classical, or whatever style music the student is focusing on. For Drummers, I prefer the Haskell Harr Method, or the Buddy Rich Method Book, as well as the Breeze Easy Method Book. For piano instruction, I prefer the Faber Piano Method Books, as they are tailored to the students' individual needs. Read More