Violin Lessons in Oakford, PA

Instruments: Piano Violin Electric Violin

My teaching style revolves around a student's interests, and my lessons are modified and personalized for each individual. Every student has a different style of their own, and I work hard to help them develope their style. Learning music should never feel like a chore; it should be a form of self expression. Rather than using only lesson books to teach, i also provide them a blank and personalized lesson journal, in which they learn the foundations of writing, reading and understanding sheet music and music theory. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I LOVE to see my students with a SMILE on their face when we together find possible solutions for any technical difficulties they encounter. The beauty and novelty of the solution that emerged in the process of solving complex tasks can bring an astounding joy of creativity. I am convinced that only a creative instructor can foster a creatively thinking student. Therefore, to prepare the student for self-creative activity, I must actively enrich knowledge and share my experience with students, update and design study material depending on intellectual and psychological aspects of students, be aware of their interests and individual traits so that in the future they can use the knowledge and skills to apply not only at school but also in life. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

I received my Bachelor's in Performance from Eastman School of Music. Shortly thereafter I joined the Boise Philharmonic Orchestra. In Boise, I taught privately as well as at Boise State University. In addition to instrumental lessons, I taught classes in music theory, aural skills, and chamber music. Recently, I performed with the Symphony No. One chamber orchestra in Baltimore, premiering new works written for the ensemble. Throughout my career I have had the opportunity to perform across the United States and in Europe. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I have created a curriculum which is comprised of the Suzuki series for Violin, the String Builder Series by Samuel Applebaum and Introducing the Positions as well as Scale studies by Harvey S. Whistler. Music theory is taught using the Master Theory Series by Charles S.Peters and Paul Yoder. Additional Etudes that focus on Bowings, and Double Stops are taught to the more advanced student. Musical compositions such as Sonatas and Concertos by the major composers continue to develop the skills of the advanced student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass Keyboard

I use a variety of method books--Bastien, Hal Leonard, John Thompson, and Faber are all favorites of mine for piano. For strings, I stand by the Suzuki method and String Builder series. All lessons are supplemented with sheet music that I print out myself for free on imslp.org, so you get that free of charge! Young children (Ages 0-7), if they are mature enough to sit through a short lesson, learn mostly through play. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Electric Violin Fiddle

While I do not subscribe to any particular school of study, such as Suzuki or Schrimer's, I am a firm beleiver in starting off with my students at their current level and pace. Once I have assessed a students's personal ability, there is discussion of what goals/objectives the student wshes to achieve. Once we have decided what direction the student wishes to take with their instrument, I typically use a variety of etudes, chamber, and solo music to offer both a strong technical base along with a freedom of choice. 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