Violin Lessons in Cottage City, MD

Instruments: Violin Viola

My belief is that performed music should be fun for the performer as well as the audience. I will always give my best effort when I teach but students are also required to put in effort if they want to learn and become passionate about music. I encourage my students to have regular practice routines but make sure they are not overwhelmed. When I teach I also like to ask my students questions (such as how much bow do you need for this note? or what is the best approach to make this phrase more expressive with your left-hand?) so that students can learn to come up with solutions by themselves and can feel comfortable practicing without my always being there to guide them. Read More

Instruments: Violin

Unless requested otherwise, I primarily work with the Suzuki Method. For those unfamiliar, this is a methodology formulated on the belief that all children are capable of learning the violin at any age and skill level. This method works with play learning, ear training, and instilling a musicality from a young age. I augment these Suzuki books with other exercises, depending on the skill level of the student. This includes Galamian scales and other etudes for them to build strong foundations. Read More

Instruments: Violin Fiddle

When teaching fiddle I teach students starting on simple tunes that we learn by ear and memorize. With a few standard well known tunes down I use those to demonstrate more of the nuances of fiddle performance. The process of learning fiddle is a simultaneous process of learning how to pick up tunes quickly by ear and play them idiomatically so there is not much in the way of text that I use in the actual lessons however I will recommend readings depending on how much the student is interested in that, otherwise we mostly have a fun time playing fiddle Music Theory I teach using the standard AP music theory text and the Kostka Tonal harmony book or other textbooks that the student is using from their classes. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola

I dont have only one. It depends on the child or the adult. Someone might need Suzuki, some Essentials, some russian method(Radionov) and also music that they like! I try to be flexible and to understand whats best for them! Also I try to keep a balance between fun and dedication, for them to also be aware that music requires discipline even when you do it just as a hobby! Read More

Instruments: Violin

My beginners generally start with the "All For Strings" series to obtain the basic elements of violin playing. This curriculum provides students with virtually every phase of beginning through intermediate string study. I introduce solo repertoire that matches the musical interest of each student. I also guide my intermediate students through study of their current Middle School or High School orchestral repertoire. With adults, I endeavor to combine their tastes and interests with musical literature that is fun and sustains interest such as Mazas and Viotti duets. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My Experience: With a deep-rooted passion for music and an unwavering commitment to nurturing talent, I bring a wealth of teaching experience to Musika Music Lessons. My journey as a violin and viola instructor has spanned across diverse environments and cultures, spanning over two decades. My teaching odyssey commenced during my college years, blossoming into a thriving part-time endeavor eight years ago. For the past five years, my home studio has served as the vibrant backdrop for countless musical journeys. Read More