Violin Lessons in Sugar Hill, NY

Instruments: Piano Violin

I have been teaching consistently since the summer of 2013, working with students of all ages and ability. Although I specialize in violin performance and pedagogy, I have also spent a significant amount of time teaching piano, music theory, and harmony. I believe that consistent practice, alongside warm encouragement and motivation is the key to any kind of success when teaching music. Over the years, I have learned that teaching violin and music does not have to be done solely on the instrument, and I like to spend time developing a strong sense of harmony and rhythm by playing small practice games throughout a lesson- especially with children. 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 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

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Trumpet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Recorder Double Bass Keyboard Electric Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My methods are non-traditional for some students and traditional for others. Each person learns differently and needs different methods to achieve their goals. I have used Essential Methods books, Jump Right In books, and others that I have found in my studies as a music teacher. I believe music is learned in many different ways, by ear, by reading, and by playing. We learn to talk by talking and being surrounded by those who talk. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Piano Voice

My teaching style is strongly based on the constructivist method of learning. What that means is I prefer to help students by means of demonstrating skills( Left/ right-hand technique, excerpts from music, etc.), to scaffold their learning, and to help them overcome challenges by means of critical thinking and problem-solving. Setting practice goals and also keeping a practice journal is an effective way to keep students on track with their playing development. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

I approach students with some humor and wit to open up their mind to me. I always try to make my students feel comfortable with me and bond with me which I think it is very important in teaching. I encourage to set realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Setting goals for every lesson will help them to feel achievement that would give them a motivation to be passionate with violin. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

I cater the lessons towards the individual needs of the students.  For beginning students 6 years old and under, I prefer to use Shirley Givens' books, "Adventures In Violinland", along with Suzuki materials through rote memorization.  When the student is 5 or 6 years old or older, I like to use Suzuki materials but supplement with note reading right away.  Also, I love it when a student brings a specific piece of music in that they would like to play, whether it is from the classical repertoire, or jazz, pop, etc. Read More