Violin Lessons in Itasca, IL

Instruments: Violin Viola

Nothing is more rewarding than when my students leave the lesson more motivated than when they came. I understand that it is a challenge for students to go home and practice, so I address this by setting goals for the student. I want the student to leave the lesson feeling proud of what they accomplished and motivated to continue learning. I want them to be able to apply the techniques they learn in music to other areas of study so that they can explore and be curious about everything. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Violin Bass Guitar Harmonica

I will continually focus on vowel-forming exercises and funneling the singing air through the nasal cavity and middle of the face. This way, the student will understand how to produce a big sound without straining. Breathing exercises such as 'underwater noises' and 'tornado siren' are fun and keep the mood open and lively. I want to create an atmosphere that lets the student feel strong enough to test their limits. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I started violin at the age of 10 in the Homewood public school system and it has been with me ever since. I am now an Indiana University Jacobs School of Music Alumn and have a Bachelor's in Music with a degree in Violin Performance. I studied all four years with Mimi Zweig and worked for a year at the Fairview Elementary School as a part of the Violin Project. In 2016, I had the opportunity to perform with the Teng Virtuosi in Cebu, Philippines in collaboration with the El Sistemang Philipino. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I prefer to start young beginners with the Suzuki method. I feel it's the best method for not only instilling the correct posture and tone production, but also a great method for instilling a passion for the instrument. Students learn songs by rote in a lesson, and then practice at home along with a recording in order to train the ear. Once students have a good foundation, I add in I Can Read Music and use it as a supplement to continued Suzuki practice to begin developing music reading skills. 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: Violin Viola

For beginning students who are children ages 7 and up without parent support during home practice, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola

My teaching philosophy is that of encouraging and inspiring my students to do their personal best in a creative, positive and enriching learning environment. I teach students of all ages using various teaching materials, focusing on the individual student’s learning style. I enjoy teaching students at various stages in their development whether they are preparing for University auditions, studying for their own enjoyment or preparing to join a local community string ensemble or orchestra. Read More