Violin Lessons in Lincolnwood, IL

Instruments: Guitar Violin Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

My preferred method for very young students has been the Suzuki method, as I believe a well trained ear continues to be our best musical learning tool later in life as well. When students progress to reading, the full line of Suzuki books can of course be utilized, but it is very advisable to incorporate additional materials and techniques. The Kodaly method is also useful and even more traditional 'reading first' techniques can be used if requested. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Music

I love using the Suzuki method for skill building, but I also believe that students should be musically literate! I utilize supplemental books, such as "I Can Read Music," Essential Elements, and other sight-reading materials to encourage note-reading from the get-go. All of my students, including those who are 4 years old read notes. I emphasize etudes (studies), scales, warm-ups, physical stretches, and favorite songs of my students as part of a balanced repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Violin

For my beginner students who are children, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements and sometimes Lee W. Kikuchi's Musicianship for Strings. Scales and arpeggios follow shortly after. As the student progresses, I follow up with Harvey S. Whistler's Introducing the Positions (this book can also work with adults). Etude books such as Wohlfahrt and Kreutzer come into play when the student is ready. As far as repertiore, I use the first few Suzuki books and Barber's "Soloists for Young Violinists" for my younger students (the latter can also work with adults). Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

I do this myself without straining the student. Gradually, the student begins to naturally hold the instrument. From this point on, we gradually begin to play songs on our own. Children are eager to play because it is easy and interesting for them. With older children who are already playing, there are other tasks. I work on the technique of playing the instrument, while motivating them in various ways so that it is interesting for them to do routine work. Read More

Instruments: Violin

Playing an instrument is almost like training for an athletic sport; it is important that the body is properly engaged safely in order to produce a beautiful sound and prevent injury. Injury has been a concern amongst string players, and tension tends to develop in the body in ways we don't even realize until something goes wrong. With this in mind as well as my teaching method, I encourage my students to develop an awareness of the body as well as good thinking processes to ensure that they have a healthy perspective on their own progress and relieve any tension that could possibly manifest in the body. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

I enjoy seeing the light in a students eyes when a concept has clicked for them. Each student will progress at their own pace and will set goals with me that are realistic for them. On top of the lesson material, music learning games and choosing a song of the students choice is fun to incorporate in the lessons. If the student is bored, then I will find a solution. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a genuine passion for music! Thats why its so important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic and achievable goals for my students at every lesson. Celebrating accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes them eager to learn even more. By discovering what truly inspires each student, Im able to successfully tailor my instruction to meet their unique wants and needs. Read More