Violin Lessons in Norristown, PA

Instruments: Violin

I first began teaching in High School, by providing extra tutoring sessions to some my instructor's other younger students. This provided me with a great opportunity to develop my approach for teaching strong fundamentals in a fun way with beginners and younger students. Growing up in the New York public school system, I was a part of the annual New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) music festivals. Participation in these festivals involves performing a solo audition, which then grants access to perform with the All-County and All-State orchestras. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My serious musical training began in Russia at the Moscow State Academic Music College named after P.I Tchaikovsky. The eagerness and commitment to perfecting my craft both technically and artistically as a violinist coupled with my passion for promoting Azerbaijan, brought me to the United States of America where I earned my Doctorate degree in violin performance at Temple University (Philadelphia). My travel and performance experiences across Europe, Russia, Azerbaijan, and The United States of America have offered me first-hand exposure to meaningful opportunities to explore and learn a variety of genres and cultures from Azerbaijani Mugham and Russian folklore to western classical music and everything in between while learning from diverse people, cultures, and places. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I initially focus on their setup and how to hold the instrument properly. Having this solid foundation helps in the future to avoid injuries and negative habits. After that, I use the Essential Elements books and Suzuki method books as a guideline with supplemental materials. At this point I would also begin introducing solo repertoire appropriate for a first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my teaching according to their level of interest, keeping lessons engaging and fun. Many times that includes playing fiddle tunes, which is very exciting to me too, since I have been involved in Irish culture since I was young. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Electric Violin Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I feel that if I want to be effective in how I teach, I always need to keep an open mind and even change the way I do things to cater to the individual student. My job is to be here for the student in whatever capacity they need me. I can push them really hard and really fast, or I can move as slow as they need to. I never liked having a teacher that yelled at me or said words I found discouraging.....it certainly didn't make me look forward to going to the lessons. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

In highschool I worked with a music mentoring program.  I would travel to local elementary schools and teach children from 2nd to 4th grade violin in small groups.  This cultivated my love of teaching.  Though in college I never had the opportunity to teach privately due to my busy schedule, during breaks I would often give masterclass style lessons to students of my former teacher Michael Bandimere when they were preparing for performances or auditions. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Trumpet Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums

I use a variety of methods for my teaching style. I usually have a few method books that I bring to a first lesson, and after meeting the student I will decide on the best one. Once the student has progressed and shows some motivation to be slightly challenged, I'll introduce "popular" music so that the student feels a sense of accomplishment! Music is associated with movies, radio, etc., so to be able to play something recognizable is exciting for the student and the teacher. Read More