Viola Lessons Montgomery County, PA

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

Instruments: Violin, Cello, Viola

I started teaching while I was a graduate student at Carnegie Mellon University.  I taught part time private lessons and worked for a Saturday Morning music program teaching Strings and Music Theory.  I have taught in public schools for 12 years teaching strings/orchestra to elementary, middle and high school students.  I have taught students individually, in small groups and in large groups and orchestras.  I have adjudicated at competitions and festivals and taught private lessons in violin, cello and viola over the last 30 years. 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

Instruments: Piano, Voice, Violin, Viola, Keyboard

Excellent, nurturing Suzuki violin pedagogy - treating music as a mother tongue to absorb, imitate, and engage with - informs my methods for beginning and intermediate students. Gradually, as the student shows readiness, we blend in the traditional yet humane study of expert violin playing and thoughtful musicianship modeled for me in Dorothy DeLay's masterclass. As distinct from many string players, I am also a devoted and accomplished singer. So breathing, posture, phrasing, color, line, and articulation are key to my approaches to making and teaching music, and thus to helping my students x22singx22 through their playing. Read More

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

There is nothing more rewarding than seeing my students flourish. My students will often come to the first lesson worried about their ability and leave with more than a grin on their face because it was not at all what they were expecting. I strive to make my teaching style unique to each individual. My students find that I can explain a concept or practice technique to them in multiple ways if they do not understand it the first time. Read More