Violin Lessons in Oakford, PA

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching philosophy follows the belief that musical understanding and maturity are easier to discuss once the student is able to execute a variety of technical details. I often say that technique is teaching a student how to make ten shades of blue, but musicality is deciding which shade of blue to use. Musicality can be more subjective than technique, although there are certain guidelines for each period (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, etc.). Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Drums Banjo Mandolin Fiddle Orchestral Percussion Music Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I started out as a percussionist, studying throughout high school and in to college at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. During my time in Boston, I discovered a bustling bluegrass music scene and my focus switched to stringed instruments, namely the mandolin and the violin. Since College, I have been using all veins of traditional music to join in and build communities of artists. I'm very well connected in the New York City Bluegrass, Irish, and Jazz scenes. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Fiddle Keyboard

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Suzuki level books, String Explorer and Fiddletime joggers to increase sightreading and listening skills. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola Clarinet Bass Guitar Banjo Ukulele Double Bass Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I like to make learning an instrument an enjoyable experience and allow students to progress at their own pace.  I also introduce them to different styles of music such as classical, folk, Broadway musicals as well as popular songs.  In addition, I teach students new skills and techniques to enhance their playing abilities. I encourage my students to practice, ask questions about the music and how it should be played with respect to the technique and expression required to perform a piece of music effectively. 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: Violin

I have created a curriculum which is comprised of the Suzuki series for Violin, the String Builder Series by Samuel Applebaum; the Introducing the Positions-Volumes I & 2 and 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: Violin

Assuming that the student is starting from scratch, I start by directing them how to hold the bow and explaining all the different parts of the bow and their purpose. I then move over to the violin and do the same. I first start with showing them a good bow hold as I feel like a proper bow hold is a very important key to making a great sound. I will also take the time to explain the role of the fingers and show how it is the foundation to all the bow technique they are going to learn. Read More