Viola Lessons Armstrong County, PA

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Voice, Violin, Viola, Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Ukulele, Euphonium, French Horn, Tuba, Oboe, Bassoon, Music, Keyboard, Classical Guitar, Acoustic Guitar

The first lesson is often very relaxed and focused on the student's learning style. I will then start with one of the many beginner books that I feel will suit the student. Often that depends on the age, experience, and knowledge. I want the music to push the boundaries, but not too difficult. My students will focus on slow, steady, and consistent practice schedules. It tends to aid in the discipline required for music. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Violin, Viola, Keyboard

As Shinichi Suzuki said, musical harmony breeds social harmony; to learn and make music together helps us all. For this I have grown the string and choral programs in Elmhurst's 51st Avenue Academy; taught violin, viola, and chamber music at the Queens College Center for Preparatory Studies in Music; led the Stony Brook Pre-College chamber music program; taught strings and chorus in Kiev, Ukraine; taught graduate education courses at Touro College online; and enjoy teaching music at NJ's Calderone School. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Violin, Viola, Fiddle, Music, Keyboard

When I was a kid, I watched a movie called The Red Slipper about an aspiring ballet dancer auditioning for a prestigious ballet company. The director asked her why she wanted to dance, and she replied, “Why do you want to breathe?” That phrase has stuck with me throughout the years, because to me music is just as vital as breathing. It has long been the most special part of my daily life, and has been my most rewarding endeavor so far. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Violin, Cello, Viola, Recorder, Fiddle, Mallet Percussion, Orchestral Percussion

I strongly believe that every person can succeed in music given proper attention and opportunity, and therefore focus my lessons differently for individual students according to their skills and interests. For beginning students, unless they are adults or already proficient in another instrument, I always start with my favorite method books to ensure the fundamentals are firmly established. I usually realy on Alfred's Basic Piano Course, Strictly Strings, Suzuki, or Essental Elements depending on the instrument I'm teaching. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Viola

For beginning students, I initially focus on their setup and how to hold the instrument properly. Having this solid foundation helps in the future to avoid injuries and negative habits. After that, I use the Essential Elements books and Suzuki method books as a guideline with supplemental materials. At this point I would also begin introducing solo repertoire appropriate for a first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my teaching according to their level of interest, keeping lessons engaging and fun. Many times that includes playing fiddle tunes, which is very exciting to me too, since I have been involved in Irish culture since I was young. Read More