Violin Lessons in Jefferson, OR

Instruments: Piano Violin Flute Music Keyboard

Lessons are broken up into two parts: Technique and repertoire. It's important to build up proper technique to prevent injury and to refine skill. I like students to work on three pieces at a time (It sounds scary, but is totally manageable.) If I feel the student can handle more music, I will adjust. The first piece is at the student's skill level. This is so the student can accomplish the task at hand relatively quickly without a lot of wood shedding. Read More

Instruments: Violin Electric Violin Music

My teaching style revolves around guiding each student through the mental process of developing one's music skills, both in a technical and musical sense. I believe everyone is capable of becoming a fantastic violinist, as long as they are shown what to focus on and what to look out for in their own relationship with the violin. Often, students are thrown into the deep end and asked to swim. I am more concerned with teaching each of my students how to observe themselves so that they can make adjustments and improvements based on their own assessments of themselves, rather than just telling each student what to do. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Ukulele Electric Violin Fiddle Acoustic Guitar

Each student is their own personality and I enjoy seeing how the music making unfolds with them in the process of learning. Each student gets their own unique weekly practice program based on their age and level. I am encouraging and patient teacher. I also see to it that my students get to their own goals by time. I want to make sure that my students have a firm foundation that holds when students advance further in their studies. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Ben Gardner initially wanted to play the cello, but instead chose the violin to make the walk to school easier. He quickly fell in love with the instrument, and 16 years later he holds 2 degrees in Violin Performance and has appeared as a soloist and ensemble member across the Western United States in both Classical ensembles and in orchestras specializing in Historical Performance Practice, playing on historically authentic instruments. Ben holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, and a Master’s degree from the University of Oregon. Read More