Violin Lessons in Southbridge, MA

Instruments: Violin Electric Violin Fiddle

I began my music education at the age of 8 in Boston, along with my siblings and mother. I chose violin, studied at the South End Music Center, and relied on my time with violin as a constant in an otherwise turbulent young life. During the early 1970's I submerged myself in the rich folk scene of Cambridge, MA, playing fiddle and backup violin and sharing the stage with numerous bands. Read More

Instruments: Violin

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at their 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 instructions to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums French Horn Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn Keyboard

The student decides how fast he/she will progress by practicing very hard, or by working at a more moderate pace. Once again, I always participate in the learning process, as this method of teaching will enhance the private lesson, and a mutual enjoyment and respect will develop! The student must convey to me what he/she desires to focus on, and there will be a "win/win" situation which is always preferred. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

Also performing in concerts gives them goals to work for so I try to have my students to perform at some assisted living places and more several times a year and the more they perform usually the better they improve. It can be encouraging to see that others make mistakes too and that noone is perfect. I like students to learn how to read as soon as they can, but I honor the suzuki idea that it is good to learn to play the first few pieces by ear so listening does not get lost in learning to read. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Viola Banjo Ukulele

 Stephen is a graduate of Columbia University. A composer of more than fifty pieces, his music has been performed by both chamber groups and orchestras in the US and abroad. The most notable performers of his compositions include the Gregg Smith Singers, Stitching Combinatie van Utrechtse Muziekbelangen, New Calliope Singers, Group for Contemporary Music, and the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble. Stephen continues to work as a freelance guitarist and conductor, performing in various national venues with the Gregg Smith Singers, the Group for Contemporary Music, the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble, and the Composers Ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching method is similar to the Suzuki Pedagogy in essence, however I have expanded much upon my early Suzuki Pedagogy training. I believe a skilled educator utilizes many avenues of knowledge to create a product individualized for each student, the years have taught me this. I also believe that it is vital for an excellent educator to understand that learning is a two way street. I pay attention to my students, I Iisten to them. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I would approach teaching by making sure the student is comfortable with whatever i am showing them, and trying to adapt to whatever style makes them comfortable if necessary. Setting goals for the end of each lesson is important based on their skill level and how quickly they pick up the information. I will do whatever it takes to make sure the student is getting some sort of value from the lesson, and make every minute count. Read More