Violin Lessons in Laurel, NY

Instruments: Voice Violin Electric Violin Music

For all of my students, I let them pick a song (vocal) or piece (violin) that they would like to sing or play. This way I can analyze what level they are on. For my voice students, I start with vocal warm-up exercises of the different vowels. It helps me to understand their range as well as tone of voice. For my violin students, I usually stick with the Suzuki Method, or Essential Elements books, if they are in the more beginning stages. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle Music

With beginner students, regardless of age, I start with the Suzuki pre-twinkle exercises to build a solid foundation of technique, as well as starting ear training exercises and note reading practice. Once a student has mastered the pre-twinkle fundamentals, I move to the first two Suzuki books, and supplement with etudes tailored to the student's level and musical interests. My philosophy is that learning should be organic and enjoyable, so I do my best to introduce repetitive and uninteresting exercises only when necessary, and to make them as entertaining as possible when I do so. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Piano Voice

Growing up with both Suzuki books and Hal Leonard Essential Elements books, those are what I prefer to use. Essential Elements, especially for string players, offers an incredible foundation for beginners. One thing I really love about those books is the use of scales from the start. As a college musician, you quickly learn the importance of scales. I place a high priority on scale practice as it is the foundation of all we play. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar

As a multi-instrumentalists, I use a cross disciplinary approach even when a student is only learning one instrument. I do make use of method books for beginners, and the specific book depends upon the instrument, but I have my own methods and materials which I utilize in my lessons. Building a repertoire is encouraged, and I use the material to assist in instructing in theory and musical communication. My students are taught to be self-sufficient, by way of practice, study, and cultivating an "ear." Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Organ Accordion Ukulele Double Bass Keyboard

The teaching begins with identifying student's musical needs, goals and tastes. Students are taught a stimulating, thorough, and graduated course of recital solos, theory, technical studies, and a strandard instrument repertoire. For those wishing to pursue more of a classical approach to music, there are proven methods to accomplish that goal established by European Master Teacher and pedagogues. Also, I can teach the know-how of Jazz and Blues though gradual lessons that cover basic scales and chords up to melody and harmony development. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Music

My teaching experience dates back to my undergraduate days, as I began teaching private lessons part-time 7 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students all across the globe in the US, Singapore, and Taiwan. I have worked with beginner, intermediate, and advanced players and adjusted to their needs accordingly, as well as gained valuable knowledge on how to efficiently resolve the difficulties encountered by the students. My own experience with how my teacher taught me also inspired me to have acquired many problem-solving skills and I aspire to pass down those abilities to my students. Read More

Instruments: Voice Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

Music should not be boring or intimidating, so I teach to my students' personalities and their comfort levels. I will ask my students to try rigorous exercizes but I will do so in a manner that is fun and rewarding, not exhausting. I enjoy adding humor to my lessons and I like to keep the mood light and conversational because music is as much about connection and communication as it is about notes. Read More