Violin Lessons in Penns Park, PA

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

My next job was in the South Brunswick public school district where I taught elementary strings and band, as well as some general music classes. Upon leaving the public school system, I shifted my focus to teaching private individual lessons. Although I enjoyed working in the public schools, this was the best decision I ever made! I have found so much joy in being able to work with students one on one, to help them become the best musician they can be. 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

Instruments: Violin

My teaching style can best be described as flexible. I like to tailor every lesson to each individual student based on their needs and interests. For younger and newer students regardless of age, I like to focus primarily on fundamentals such as developing proper posture, becoming comfortable with the instrument, tuning and producing sound. For students who already have a good grasp of the fundamentals, we will have more of a discussion about their goals and interests, such as any upcoming auditions or performances. Read More

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: Violin Viola

My teaching experience goes back to my high school days, as I began teaching privately 7 years ago, and have consistently taught in my home studio for the last several years. Encouraging regular practice, as well as focused practice, are some of the key points I like to emphasize for all of my students. Practicing correctly, as well as consistently, motivates students as they see their exponential progress. All seriousness aside, having fun and playing from the heart is the most important thing to remember. 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