Violin Lessons in Oakland, NJ

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I am a violinist of 20 years, originally from New Haven, CT. My passion for helping each student reach his or her highest potential has led me to an extensive career in public school teaching. I have taught violin, viola, cello, and double bass privately for over 10 years. I have spent the last 5 years focusing on reaching students of all abilities through teaching in the public classroom- working with students of all ages, and teaching general music, band, and orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

For beginning students, I typically start with the Suzuki Method while combining it with the Essential Elements Method. As the student learns the fundamentals I gradually add scales and exercises to further develop the student's technique. After further progress, I begin to introduce solo repertoire and add other pieces. I'm fairly flexible on what pieces the student may play in the lessons, as long as the rudiments and classic repertoire are covered. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Synthesizer Harmonica Ukulele Recorder Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students to enjoy his or her instrument and to motivate them to practice and continue to learn. I do my best to have fun with the students. I also encourage my students to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own original material, so they can feel good about their accomplishments and stay motivated to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

I've enjoyed teaching piano, violin and viola students, for the past seventeen years! And what I've generally found is, that it's not how long you practice, but how well. I feel that a student needs to be taught how to practice! I travel around Westchester NY and in addition to teaching the instrument, I encourage students to compose their own original pieces. I am a published composer and many of my music videos can be seen on You Tube. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Clarinet

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 student's 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 Cello Viola Double Bass

I adjust my private instruction based on student interests- if a student is into composing or using programs like finale or garageband, we construct lesson content around these interests. There's always the inclusion of music theory, at all levels of experience, because I feel that it is necessary for students to understand how the music is created and why in order to become better performers and musicians. I never let a student let a bad day get in the way of having a productive lesson- I like to touch base on how they're doing, and if things aren't going so well, we will always be able to find something positive that's going on in the lesson. Read More