Violin Lessons in Keyport, WA

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Ukulele Mandolin Fiddle Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been teaching since 2008 and have felt very blessed to see students develop a love for their instrument and music. I began as a junior instructor with a group of teachers who taught different instruments, where students had the opportunity to play in a band setting. A true rock and roll beginning, I absolutely loved playing in student bands, and teacher showcase bands such as the ZZ Top and Led Zeppelin tribute bands. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My students are encouraged to take an active part in setting goals for their learning so that they develop a sense of autonomy early on in their musical careers. I ask all students that are new to me if there is specific music they wish to be able to play, what their "wish list" is for their own personal improvement and what they think they do best/what they most enjoy about violin or music as a whole; Read More

Instruments: Violin

In order to enjoy playing our instruments for many years to come, I emphasize the importance of healthy technique in order to prevent injury. Through the process of learning scales and pieces, I make sure to incorporate a focus on correct posture, a relaxed left hand, and healthy bow arm so that playing the violin is a positive experience for each student. I use a wide range of materials depending on a student's interests and background - I often teach music reading to students who are reading for the first time, and for students who are already able to read music I modify our lesson materials to reflect this. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

To my surprise, everyone, including that 6 year old, had a clear answer. All of them were different reasons and goals. I started writing notes at the end of each lesson on what a student had specifically struggled with, mastered, showed signs of improvement since the previous lesson, what exercises were draining on them, and what exercises they resonated with. I also took note of their mood and energy at the beginning of the lesson compared to the end. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

For younger students who are beginning, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. This book has great materials for setting up the violin and bow hold, reading notes, rhythm and other musical markings, and introducing basic music theory such as time and key signatures. Also, this book incorporates the foundation of all musical learning, scales and arpeggios, into fun exercises that are enjoyable for every student.For older students who have more experience, I have a range of etudes from Sevcik to Kreutzer that can futher develop and solidify a good foundation of technique.For musical training, I use solo repertoire from Suzuki and other sources that are appropriate for each student's level so that he/she can be healthily challenged musically and technically while feeling accomplished during performances. Read More

Instruments: Voice Violin

I have taught with organizations such as 4/4 School of Music, Illumination Learning Studio, TakeLessons.com, Treehouse, and Music & Arts (where I led a string workshop in 2018). For my Master's thesis, I conducted a research study on improving minority representation in classical music education, which was published via Medium. I continue to evaluate music-related independent studies for Antioch University students, writing narrative evaluations to be included on their transcripts. In addition to my career, I currently serves as a Case Manager for the Youth Re-Engagement Program at Everett Community College, where I help young adults navigate the paths to their own dream careers. Read More