Violin Lessons in Mahwah, NJ

Instruments: Violin

My coaches have included Ida Kavafian [The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center], violinist Maria Radicheva (Manhattan School of Music); Yuri Vodovoz (violin) at Mannes College of Music/The New School. I currently perform with several groups including the Radiance Chamber Ensemble. I have also performed with the Society of Musical Arts (SOMA), Musica Dolce, (the baroque music ensemble of the Highland Park Recorder Society); the Metropolitan Orchestra of NJ, Baroque Orchestra of NJ and State Repertory Opera Orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola

My method is basically laid out in the following format. While I try to adhere to this, everyone is different and I do tailor the lesson to the individual. 1) Technics 2) Lesson Books 3) Etudes 4) Solo piece 5) Accompanied piece. To learnapplied musicissomething thatanyone can and should do, andthere should be no discrimination whereage or individual ability are concerned. Itis one of the things most people are either very grateful to have learned, or something they universally regret not learning in life. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Keyboard

I believe in teaching future string musicians there is only one way to make the best sound and teaching how to do this from the beginning. I want the students to understand how their instrument works by demystifying the mechanics. Once the student knows how to use the instrument, they can then discover the music and their voice in the music. For string instruments, I use the Suzuki books and Artistry in Strings method. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

For beginner students, I use the Essential Elements for strings (books 1 and 2). In conjunction with these books, I select a repertoire that corresponds with their current abilities, and work my way up from there. For adults and more advanced students, I use various technical studies such as Sevcik, Kreutzer, and Rode, and standard Rep using the International editions. Regardless of the age or skill level, I always strive to maintain constant engagement and motivation throughout my lessons, whether online or in person. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students who are children, I typically begin by introducing them to the various parts of the instrument, along with the basics of technique and position. New notes and concepts would be introduced through learning familiar songs and pieces. All parents are encouraged to attend their child's violin lessons so that they can aid practice sessions. For adults, I try to find out what the student is most interested in learning, and devise a plan with the student accordingly in order to keep the lessons engaging and fun. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I believe every student needs a comfortable, fun and non-judgmental environment to thrive. My main goal is to help them achieve their goals (passing exams, getting a scholarship, joining an orchestra, performing at school, playing their favorite pop songs at home, etc) and to enjoy the journey. I am easy-going and understanding but I expect all my students to practise from one lesson to the next and I always set clear and realistic goals. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginner students, I like to work on positioning the instrument, proper bow hold, and simple string crossing exercises. A great beginners book is the quick steps to note reading. I believe beginner students should be practicing with this book every day. When they are ready to start learning pieces, I really like to use the Suzuki books. This works for both young beginners and adult beginners. For students who are more advanced, I am adamant about them practicing scales and etudes. Read More