Violin Lessons in Briarcliff, PA

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with a beginner method such as Essential Elements or Sound Innovations. 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

My aspirations as a violin instructor are to enable students to identify, understand, and assess challenges they contend to search for possible solutions. I am a proponent of self-directed learning, and intentionally create situations in class that allow the students to learn through the unconventional approach. I also encourage students to come up with their own exercises and possible solutions for any challenge they encounter. In order to measure their learning, I require students to demonstrate the process of searching for possible solutions in class. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin

My teaching style is defined by a combination of high standards, understanding, nurture and patience. I will set realistic goals for each student based on his/her abilities. I will encourage and try new ways to explain or demonstrate a skill that the student is having difficulty with and I will be extremely enthusiastic about their accomplishments. However, I will assertively make it known if the student shows that they have not been practicing in a supportive way. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I am a creative and focused violin instructor specializing in classical to contemporary orchestral music. I graduated from Drexel University in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. I have been playing the violin for almost 20 years, starting from my Kindergarten music lessons all the way to sitting as Concert Master for the Drexel University Symphony Orchestra. Between that, I've had the privilege of performing with the Metropolitan Youth Orchestra, the Gemini Youth Orchestra, New York All-County Orchestra, New York All-State Orchestra and New York Summer School of the Arts. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Beginners: Suzuki Methodology up to book 6 with heavy emphasis on technique and fundamentals Intermediate: Standard solo repertoire Mozart, Bach, Haydn, Kabalevsky, with focus on advanced technique (intonation, colle, martele, sautille, etc) (Ideal for students who wish to do PMEA) etudes: wohlfahrt, kreutzer Advanced: Iconic solo repertoire Tchaikovsky, Sibelius, Mendelssohn with focus on musicality (advanced phrasing, expressive shifting, sounding point, bow speed/weight control, smooth bow and string crossings) etudes: Rode, Paganini Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Electric Violin

CAPA provided Alissa with the opportunity to play and perform with the All-City Philadelphia Orchestra, Curtis Institute of Music, Temple Orchestra, as well as performing with the conductor of the Philadelphia Orchestra, Yannick Nézet-séguin. Alissa continued on to Rowan College after high school, continuing to teach lessons from home. In addition to consistent practice, Alissa has tutored many younger students for piano and violin within her schools, and has taught lessons to children of friends and family. 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