Violin Lessons in Gibsonia, PA

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

My favorite quote is: "All students have gifts, they just open their presents have different times."  I work with students where they are and at their pace.  I start beginners with Essential Elements 2000 for Strings.  As students progress I use Samuel Applebaum method books, traditional etudes like Wolfhardt and Sevick, Suzuki books and solo pieces as appropriate.  I teach Traditional Classical string instruction.  I will work to find pieces that students find interesting and keep my instruction engaging and fun for all of my students of all ages. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola

In all of my teaching, I combine my students' interests with the leading pedagogy practices in string education to develop the foundational skills of the instrument as well as a fondness for it. There are several method books that I use such as Suzuki, Schroeder's Cello Etudes, and Fiddler's Philharmonic, however, I tailor each lesson path to each student based on student interest as well as proper sequencing. I generally start with these method books, especially for cello, for beginning students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I have a "less talk, more play" approach to music. People learn instruments because they want to play music, and that is always the focus in my lessons. While some instructors incessantly talk about theory, history, and other music concepts, I prefer to keep the talking to a minimum and have my students play their instrument as much as possible. I also tend to move at a quick pace, but I always adapt my pacing to meet the needs of the student. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I'm a passionate and motivated teacher who loves working with students and sharing my love for music. In 2007, I graduated from Pensacola Christian College with a minor in music with a performance focus on the viola. I had the opportunity to study under Dr. Alberto Jaffe, world renowned violinist, and Dr. John Wilcox. I had the opportunity to play several years in multiple orchestras during my college years and multiple ensembles, as well as playing for several smaller groups around town for special services. Read More

Instruments: Violin

Everyone comes at music from a different angle, therefore I approach teaching each student from a different angle. One of the most important things to me is to teach the student how to use their head before they try to produce a sound. Learning an instrument can be very fun and extremely satisfying, but it takes more work than most people expect. While this may be true, I understand everyone is busy and practicing a couple hours a day is often impossible. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For younger students (less than 5), I think Suzuki method would probably work best! We would focus on small exercises to establish good posture and sound while learning mainly through imitation and listening. When a student is able, I do encourage some theory as to read music fluently and gain understanding of basic musical concepts. At this age, I also encourage weekly technical exercises (scales, etudes) to improve ability and fluidity of playing. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Viola Ukulele Music Acoustic Guitar

As I said before in my experience, I am a certified Suzuki violin teacher by the Suzuki Association of the Americas, and it is for that reason I principally use the Suzuki Methodology. However, I know every student is different. It is for that reason that I apply differently to each of them. I encourage my students to work toward different goals that we set up in the beginning of their lessons. Read More