Violin Lessons in Farmingville, NY

Instruments: Violin Viola

I am a very laid-back teacher. My belief is that music is fun. I encourage my students to have fun. Too many teachers make music all about practice and drilling. While practicing and drilling is definitely a part of learning, it is not the end-all be-all. Music needs to be enjoyed for what it is - fun! I have had teachers who have sucked the joy out of learning for me, and I strive to make sure that never happens for my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin

Voice methodology is to learn how to make the correct sound on the flow of breath.  One must learn how to breathe whether singing loudly or softly in whichever style or genre the student wants to learn. String playing can be hard on the ears when beginning, therefore it is important to develop a good bow technique in order to make the best sound possible.  I use the All For Strings method books. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I have been teaching for almost 20 years and have taught people as young as four years old to amateur adults, as well as from beginners to highly advanced pre-conservatory students, and people from all different backgrounds. Music is such a personal journey for each person, and my teaching philosophy is centered around what the student needs and wants. My ideal student is one who shows a daily devotion to the strengthening of necessary muscle groups, to students who are eager to learn and to try new things, and students who are motivated to accomplish goals that we set together! Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle Music

My first violin student started with me 9 years ago during my undergraduate studies in Utah. I realized that teaching is much different than performing and started taking classes to be a better instructor. I grew up studying the Suzuki books and have registered Violin Teacher Training Units 1-4 with the Suzuki Association of the Americas. In college, I studied Violin Pedagogy with the esteemed pedagogue Dr. Kasia Sokol-Borup who demonstrated how to enhance the Suzuki method with other styles of teaching. Read More

Instruments: Violin

Most importantly, I believe every student is different and I always try to avoid a "one size fits all" approach to teaching. That said, I'm a big advocate of scales, etudes, and technical exercises, as well as exploring repertoire (solo, chamber music, and symphonic). I encourage students to listen to a wide variety of music, in addition to their work on the violin, sometimes with weekly listening assignments. Daily, systematic practice at home is required of all my students (especially younger ones) for clear progress to happen. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

My goal is to instill a love for music with all my students. Imodify my style and approach to the interests and skills of each student. No student is alike and therefore, no teaching approach is alike. As long as the student is enjoying playing an instrument, progressing, my goal has been reached. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students who are children, I typically begin by introducing them to the various parts of the instrument, along with the basics of technique and position. New notes and concepts would be introduced through learning familiar songs and pieces. All parents are encouraged to attend their child's violin lessons so that they can aid practice sessions. For adults, I try to find out what the student is most interested in learning, and devise a plan with the student accordingly in order to keep the lessons engaging and fun. Read More