Violin Lessons in Belmar, NJ

Instruments: Guitar Violin Fiddle Music Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

With Violin Students, I like to start with the Suzuki method, Hal Leonard's Essential Elements, as well as some basic 1 octave scales. The first book of Suzuki is taught mainly by ear, while in the background I am also teaching rhythm with the Essential Elements material. With production songwriting and guitar, I like to work on basic chord shapes, chord changes and basic music theory so the student can understand the concepts clearly. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin

My teaching method combines aspects of the Suzuki method with my own creative exercises and improvisation. I believe that teaching students to invent melodies and rhythms from early in their musical training deepens their ability to hear and perform. I also believe that rhythmic exercises are not emphasized enough in classical instrumental training, and I incorporate such exercises into my own core curriculum. If a student is interested in improvisation, jazz, or pop music, I offer in-depth instruction to performing over chord changes, and other creative violin techniques like playing chords, chopping, and other percussive tools. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle Music

After spending my youth studying in the Suzuki method and giving solo and orchestral performances, Ben began to experiment with other genres of music during his teenage years. In 1997, he received a scholarship to study at the Brhaddvani Center for Music of the World in Madras, India. In 2000 I studied performing and arranging with the Turtle Island String Quartet, and composition and improvisation with Dr. Yusef Lateef. Between 01 and 03, I performed throughout South America with The Lima Jazz Quintet and The Benjamin S. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with the Suzuki Method. I introduce the student to basic instrumental technique on their chosen instrument, whether it be violin or piano. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle Music

In my lessons, I balance technique with musicality; though learning the violin requires discipline, I maintain a comfortable, friendly atmosphere while pushing pupils to achieve results. As a teacher I prioritize inspiration while providing structure for growth and flexibility to accommodate individual needs. This means setting realistic goals, regular practice routines, and acknowledging accomplishments, preferably in a recital or performance. I try to pass on my own passion for music while nurturing my students' interests in a safe environment that cultivates growth and progress. Read More

Instruments: Violin

Most importantly, I believe every student is different and I always try to avoid a "one size fits all" approach to teaching. That said, I'm a big advocate of scales, etudes, and technical exercises, as well as exploring repertoire (solo, chamber music, and symphonic). I encourage students to listen to a wide variety of music, in addition to their work on the violin, sometimes with weekly listening assignments. Daily, systematic practice at home is required of all my students (especially younger ones) for clear progress to happen. Read More