Violin Lessons in Forest Lake, IL

Instruments: Guitar Violin Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

My preferred method for very young students has been the Suzuki method, as I believe a well trained ear continues to be our best musical learning tool later in life as well. When students progress to reading, the full line of Suzuki books can of course be utilized, but it is very advisable to incorporate additional materials and techniques. The Kodaly method is also useful and even more traditional 'reading first' techniques can be used if requested. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Music

I love using the Suzuki method for skill building, but I also believe that students should be musically literate! I utilize supplemental books, such as "I Can Read Music," Essential Elements, and other sight-reading materials to encourage note-reading from the get-go. All of my students, including those who are 4 years old read notes. I emphasize etudes (studies), scales, warm-ups, physical stretches, and favorite songs of my students as part of a balanced repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

Piano students: For younger beginners, I like to use the Alfred series. These are the books that I grew up on and I have used them in my own teaching. I like their use of multiple companion books throughout each and every level. For adult beginners, I like to use Alfred's All-In-One adult books, as they feature all of the key elements of the series for younger beginners, simply geared to a more mature learner. Read More

Instruments: Violin Music

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

I believe music is unique because of individuality. I make lesson plans depending on each student's interests and learning progress. For young beginners, I encourage lots of participation from parents because it helps children feel supportive and it is always nice to see how much they grow. I like advanced students to express their ideas about the needs and wants as well as musical ideas. Different opinions would make lessons more interesting and inspiring. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Music

I am a Suzuki teacher. I love this method because it places emphasis on the skills learned, which can transfer over into any piece, rather than just learning the notes of a piece. I do think it is important to learn to recognize what you hear and play by ear, but I will not let my students fall behind with note reading. I typically begin basic note reading in the middle of book 1. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I am a passionate and motivated violin and viola instructor who teaches beginners through advanced students. I earned my Masters degree in Viola Performance from DePaul University in June 2017. I have been teaching at Music for Kids (a non-profit providing music at no cost to children in Chicago), and Music House School of Performing Arts. I have experience teaching private lessons, as well as group lessons consisting of ten kindergarten beginner students. Read More