Violin Lessons in Plainfield, NJ

Instruments: Piano Violin

I am a classically-trained violinist and composer, with a passion for teaching music to children and adults of all ages and levels. I received my Bachelor and Master of Music degrees from Indiana University, and subsequently received a scholarship to continue my studies in Paris. Over the years, I have contributed to several non-profit and El Sistema-inspired music programs, in both North and South America. My first teaching job was in Colombia, where I taught violin and directed youth orchestras, and I have gone on to teaching a wide range of music classes in Chile, Brazil, New York City, Paris, and in Austin, Texas. Read More

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

I believe that creativity is important and I use Alfred and Hal Leonard books as well as theory books to help with the lessons. 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. I also try to teach music theory, chord progressions and all the musical scales in the major keys. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Keyboard

I believe in teaching future string musicians there is only one way to make the best sound and teaching how to do this from the beginning. I want the students to understand how their instrument works by demystifying the mechanics. Once the student knows how to use the instrument, they can then discover the music and their voice in the music. For string instruments, I use the Suzuki books and Artistry in Strings method. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching experience is quite varied. I've taught young children as a member of Mimi Zweig's pedagogy classes, and I currently teach group classes to 3rd-5th graders here in NYC. I've taught chamber music to teenagers in Indiana University's Summer String Academy and to adult learners in Montreal. I encourage regular practice and strong fundamentals, but I also sincerely think that although there are many ways to teach and to learn, the best ways always are enjoyable. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Viola Drums Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Conga Keyboard Electric Guitar Djembe Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I am a NYC-based humanitarian filmmaker, dancer, musician, carpenter and teacher. I speak English, German, Catalan, and I can get by in Spanish. A dual Austrian/American citizen, I am authorized to work in the United States. From kindergarten to high school, I attended a Rudolph Steiner school, which laid my foundations in art, music and carpentry. In high school, I managed the school theater lighting system and wrote a thesis on stage lighting. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I believe in the importance of holistic music pedagogy for students at every level. Musicianship requires technical proficiency, music theory training, music history study, and creativity. I prefer to craft unique courses of study for each of my students rather than using popular, one-size-fits-all approaches, such as the Suzuki Method. Though many of these methods have valuable pedagogical insights, I hope my students can have a deep engagement with music, art and creativity that goes beyond technical mastery, a goal that requires a greater flexibility than such methods provide. Read More

Instruments: Violin Electric Violin Fiddle

I tailor my lesson plans specifically towards what each student wants and needs. Typically with very young children I will start with larger scale motions as it is difficult for them to place their tiny fingers on the instrument and coordinate. At that point my emphasis is on them having fun and avoiding any bad habits. I generally go through the motions with them so that they feel more confident. Read More