Violin Lessons in Demarest, NJ

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

For beginning students, I typically start with the Suzuki Method while combining it with the Essential Elements Method. As the student learns the fundamentals I gradually add scales and exercises to further develop the student's technique. After further progress, I begin to introduce solo repertoire and add other pieces. I'm fairly flexible on what pieces the student may play in the lessons, as long as the rudiments and classic repertoire are covered. Read More

Instruments: Violin

With my students, I always try to find what they want to achieve and tailor my lessons towards that. I always love seeing my students improve and teaching is one of the most rewarding jobs. I set weekly goals for my students, and keep track of their progress in personal journals. Each student is different, and progress will vary from student to student. It is my job to make sure the student is always challenged and strives to do their best. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Ever since I started playing viola in the third grade, I have been drawn to performing and teaching music. I am a graduate of the Hartt School, where I was a member of an honors chamber music program, Performance 20-20. Since 2007 I have been a violist in the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra and freelance on both viola and violin throughout Connecticut and Westchester County, NY. Chamber music, however, is my number one passion and one of the reasons I love playing and teaching the violin and viola!! Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I use the Essential Elements book 1. This book introduces the student to the instrument in the most practical way while making it fun, and it has the student reading music from the beginning, which I find very important. After this, we go on to Suzuki book 2 and a scale book. Then we move our way through the Suzuki books and start to incorporate more complex scales and etudes. Read More

Instruments: Violin Electric Violin Fiddle

While I do not subscribe to any particular school of study, such as Suzuki or Schrimer's, I am a firm beleiver in starting off with my students at their current level and pace. Once I have assessed a students's personal ability, there is discussion of what goals/objectives the student wshes to achieve. Once we have decided what direction the student wishes to take with their instrument, I typically use a variety of etudes, chamber, and solo music to offer both a strong technical base along with a freedom of choice. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Piano Voice

Growing up with both Suzuki books and Hal Leonard Essential Elements books, those are what I prefer to use. Essential Elements, especially for string players, offers an incredible foundation for beginners. One thing I really love about those books is the use of scales from the start. As a college musician, you quickly learn the importance of scales. I place a high priority on scale practice as it is the foundation of all we play. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginners who are children, I start with the essential Suzuki method which includes a focus on musical listening imitation, parental involvement (at very young ages) and creating an effortless technique. The Suzuki books are great in that they provide a great foundation and an extremely logical progression for taking students from complete beginners to an advanced level. For advanced students, we can branch out into a wide variety of classical concertos or other repertoire (this happens around Suzuki book 6) I love to teach adults, and I try to structure my teaching in accordance with adult students' goals and interests. Read More