Violin Lessons in Schuylerville, NY

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin

Voice methodology is to learn how to make the correct sound on the flow of breath.  One must learn how to breathe whether singing loudly or softly in whichever style or genre the student wants to learn. String playing can be hard on the ears when beginning, therefore it is important to develop a good bow technique in order to make the best sound possible.  I use the All For Strings method books. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

It is of upmost importance that educators prepare students to be highfunctioning members of society when they leave the sheltered environment of school, regardless of what their roles or vocations may be. The biggest gift we can give our students is an education that is student-centered. In order for students to learn, they must be involved in their own education and have a say in what they are learning and how they learn and demonstrate that learning. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Keyboard

Depending upon the playing ability of the student, I pick books and methods that teach the fundamentals of reading music and technical exercises. Repertoire is dependent upon the style of music in which they are interested; I teach both Classical and Jazz and they are totally different in content, although the harmony and chord progressions are similar. For beginning students, I utilize books by Alfred, or John Thompson, for example. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar

I believe the student is there to find a passion. It is so important to find love for the art, and this is what I try to provide. A lead-by-example approach is the core of what I do. I "draw" the student toward their own voice. It is imperative to help them find their own "style." The greatest musicians are true originals; and so I do not encourage my students to follow in my footsteps, but to blaze their own trails. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Every student is different; therefore there is no one method or strategy that will work universally. I create tailored lesson plans for each student taking into account age, experience, personality and learning style. Lessons can include ear training, music history, harmony, sight reading and improvisation depending on the level and goal of the student. When working with young children, I typically use games and activities and follow Mimi Zweigs principle of violin teaching, which is based on natural physical motions nurtured in a non-judgmental environment. Read More

Instruments: Violin

In my 2nd year of Juilliard I began coaching freshman student string quartets. Many of these students had very little experience with chamber music. We practiced and discussed healthy group rehearsal habits, the several technical points such as intonation and bowings that are imperative to unify when playing with others, and of course, the expression of the music. I began teaching group beginner classes 5 years ago to a group of six 8 year olds. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

For violin and viola students, I use All For Strings for beginners, and for more advanced students, use various books, including the Suzuki book. Fun and learning, are the key! And, if a student wants some pointers on how to write a song, I am quite experienced in that, having written several Off Broadway kid's shows, including my popular, "The Everyday Life Of Kids", which played throughout the Westchester NY school system. Read More