Violin Lessons in Monrovia, MD

Instruments: Violin

For beginner students who are children, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. Once the student has grasped the fundamentals, I will introduce solo repertoire suited for his or her first recital performance. I introduce etudes to the students after the student demonstrates the ability to play several simple pieces well. For intermediate and advanced students, I typically do not let them play a piece at a certain grade level until they have finished playing one piece one grade level below that. Read More

Instruments: Violin Fiddle

When teaching fiddle I teach students starting on simple tunes that we learn by ear and memorize. With a few standard well known tunes down I use those to demonstrate more of the nuances of fiddle performance. The process of learning fiddle is a simultaneous process of learning how to pick up tunes quickly by ear and play them idiomatically so there is not much in the way of text that I use in the actual lessons however I will recommend readings depending on how much the student is interested in that, otherwise we mostly have a fun time playing fiddle Music Theory I teach using the standard AP music theory text and the Kostka Tonal harmony book or other textbooks that the student is using from their classes. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I try to cater to the each student's particular needs. For beginning students that are children I typically start with the Essential Elements Strings Book 1 in combination with Suzuki first book. As every student progresses at a different pace, I adjust my teaching curriculum accordingly. Having that in mind, I decide on the next step, usually some solo repertoire, as well as some more etudes and scales.  For adults, I tend to go with what they are particularly interested in, as well as incorporating learning basic music reading and playing skills. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Double Bass Mallet Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

I have been teaching private lessons for 10 years. Encouraging students to practice regularly and to have fun with their instrument is essential for the learning process. I stress the importance of these two things so that the student may develop a love for music and their instrument of choice. Also, being able to teach a variety of musical styles keeps students wanting to learn. I encourage students to not only learn written pieces, but to create their own music and individual sound. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Recorder Euphonium French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Music Keyboard

For begining student I typically start with a book called Essential Elements. I supplement some of the things in the book with other literature and hand written exercise to help enhance learning experience. For Adults I try to find what genre and music style they would like to work on. This then allows me to plan a custom learning experience that best suits them and what they're looking to gain from the experience. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle Music

My teaching philosophy revolves around nurturing musical independence among my students. It is my goal that they can confidently approach a piece, making informed decisions about both technical and musical aspects. To facilitate this, I employ creative mnemonic techniques, transforming complex concepts into catchy and memorable phrases. By integrating multiple schools of music and violin playing, including Russian, French, and American traditions, I provide students with a holistic foundation. My approach blends technical exercises inherited from pedagogues like Ivan Galamian with interpretive insights gained from world-class musicians. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I think the violin is very special. It’s such a difficult instrument that requires lots of commitment and dedication. I would have never reached my level now if it weren’t for the teachers who were firm and persistent with me. I translate this back to my own teaching methods so I am a firm teacher but at the same time I do my best to make lessons engaging and that my students take pride in their improvements. Read More