Violin Lessons in East Setauket, NY

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I am warm and caring, and love to make my students laugh! I find that making mistakes can be much more beneficial than striving for perfection, and use these moments as crucial learning tools for students to move forward. I set goals with, not for, my students, and ask them to self evaluate before I give them my feedback. I provide students with detailed, structured practice plans that work with their schedules, and have high expectations for their time with their instrument (with, or without me). Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have taught a range of students from kids to teenagers to adults on violin, viola, piano, and drums. I have taught at churches, summer camps, colleges, student homes, and schools. I have taught a variety of genres, but classical music is certainly my forte. I currently teach at Edward R. Murrow High School in Brooklyn, NY, where I also teach students after school as well, so I have a surplus of experience working with students of varying ages in a professional and nonprofessional environment. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Playing a string instrument is very difficult and for a student to really flourish as a musician requires that they develop confidence and discipline. I find that the relationship between a music student and teacher is one that develops skills for life, not just musical techniques. I feel very thankful to my own teachers for showing me how powerful my hard work and dedication was, how fun and exciting music can be, and most importantly that their criticisms of my playing always meant that they believed in me. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle Music

As a teacher, I bring with me over 13 years of experience working with violinists ranging from young beginners to advanced, conservatory-level musicians. I am passionate about pedagogy and foster a fun, productive, and confidence-building lesson environment that is tailored to each students individual learning style and goals. I have created my own personalized curriculum from violin schools including the Suzuki Method and Mimi Zweig, as well as that of my mentor, the renowned violin pedagogue Shirley Givens. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle Music

With beginner students, regardless of age, I start with the Suzuki pre-twinkle exercises to build a solid foundation of technique, as well as starting ear training exercises and note reading practice. Once a student has mastered the pre-twinkle fundamentals, I move to the first two Suzuki books, and supplement with etudes tailored to the student's level and musical interests. My philosophy is that learning should be organic and enjoyable, so I do my best to introduce repetitive and uninteresting exercises only when necessary, and to make them as entertaining as possible when I do so. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Bass Guitar Double Bass Classical Guitar

My teaching experience dates back to my college days ,as I began teaching in professional music school full time 28 years ago and have been consistently teaching students in my home for the last 15 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key point .I like to emphasize for younger students ,as it tends to help student progress and gain passion for the instrument. I've also found that combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the instrument and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginner students, I like to work on positioning the instrument, proper bow hold, and simple string crossing exercises. A great beginners book is the quick steps to note reading. I believe beginner students should be practicing with this book every day. When they are ready to start learning pieces, I really like to use the Suzuki books. This works for both young beginners and adult beginners. For students who are more advanced, I am adamant about them practicing scales and etudes. Read More