Violin Lessons in Dickerson, MD

Instruments: Violin

I'm an ardent and compassionate instructor who enjoys sharing the gift of music with children and adults. Music enriches the communities in which we live and expands our capacity to connect with humanity. I studied privately with Philip J. Teibel of the Buffalo Philharmonic from childhood through High School. I toured the Southeast US with the Oberlin College Choir and Orchestra in college. Since graduation, I've had the opportunity to perform with numerous ensembles including: Soulful Symphony and the Baltimore Symphony at Meyerhoff Symphony Hall and Strathmore Music Center in North Bethesda. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with violin method book, Essential Elements for Strings to learn the good basics and reading the notes and where to find those notes they just learned on the fingerboard. I also introduce the Suzuki Violin School volume 1 to learn the major songs written for the violin and simply to play more songs than the scales and exercises. For students who are more advanced, I help them their school orchestra music and make sure they are doing very well on top of the class in addition to continuing with the private lesson music. Read More

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 Viola Fiddle Music

My teaching philosophy revolves around nurturing musical independence among my students. It is my goal that they can confidently approach a piece, making informed decisions about both technical and musical aspects. To facilitate this, I employ creative mnemonic techniques, transforming complex concepts into catchy and memorable phrases. By integrating multiple schools of music and violin playing, including Russian, French, and American traditions, I provide students with a holistic foundation. My approach blends technical exercises inherited from pedagogues like Ivan Galamian with interpretive insights gained from world-class musicians. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Bass Guitar Keyboard Electric Guitar

As you can see from my profile picture, I have expanded my instrument playing capabilities so that I can teach many different instrument families. I am a current elementary music teacher as well as a private instructor. I am proficient in and can provide basic-intermediate instruction in all instruments listed in my profile. I also have experience teaching each of those instruments. For advanced students preparing for college auditions, I can teach saxophone and jazz piano. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My Teaching Style: Passion for music is the driving force behind my teaching philosophy. Witnessing my students develop their own love for music is incredibly rewarding, and I'm dedicated to nurturing that passion in each individual. I believe in a personalized approach, recognizing that every student progresses at their own unique pace. Setting realistic goals at each lesson and celebrating achievements are essential to fueling their desire to learn and grow. Read More