Violin Lessons in Upper Holland, PA

Instruments: Violin

When I teach I always ask my students what I can help them with and if they are working on anything at the moment. Assuming that they are I will ask them to play a little bit of what they have prepared, just so I can get a general sense of where they are in their journey on the violin. After they finish playing I start by explaining what I noticed from a technical standpoint, so that this way they know what to be aware of and work on while they are in the practice room as it pertains to their setup. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I LOVE to see my students with a SMILE on their face when we together find possible solutions for any technical difficulties they encounter. The beauty and novelty of the solution that emerged in the process of solving complex tasks can bring an astounding joy of creativity. I am convinced that only a creative instructor can foster a creatively thinking student. Therefore, to prepare the student for self-creative activity, I must actively enrich knowledge and share my experience with students, update and design study material depending on intellectual and psychological aspects of students, be aware of their interests and individual traits so that in the future they can use the knowledge and skills to apply not only at school but also in life. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin

My goal is to foster a love of music through mastery, excellence and fun! I never want lessons to feel like something that has to be done, but rather, something to look forward to. I accomplish this by incorporating the interests of each student and including time in each lesson to improvise, create, or learn music they are interested in. I tailor my instruction to each student and keep track of progress so we know how to proceed. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Keyboard

I am a caring, intuitive, and experienced musician and teacher. Small-group situations such as studio lessons or chamber music groups find me at my happiest and most fulfilled. I have premiered exciting new works at NYU's Tenri Center, at Stony Brook, Bennington College, Queens College's Aaron Copland School, the LI Composers Alliance, and my alma mater Indiana University. I especially enjoy varied religious settings, for example as concertmaster of the holiday orchestra at St. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students I start with Suzuki books until about book 5 and then begin to branch out into other repertoire.  I teach students to read music as well as basic theory. I also incorporate playing by ear and improvisation. These are important skills which help students develop into flexible and well rounded musicians.   Read More

Instruments: Violin Electric Violin Fiddle

As I am a licensed teacher, I follow a democratic method of instruction that provides the student with the technique they need, while also addressing the student's personal wishes and goals. I strive to choose music that captures the student's attention and interest, as a motivated student is a progressive student. I can be stringent and highly structured for the more advanced player, but also remain flexible with student practice schedules. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I initially focus on their setup and how to hold the instrument properly. Having this solid foundation helps in the future to avoid injuries and negative habits. After that, I use the Essential Elements books and Suzuki method books as a guideline with supplemental materials. At this point I would also begin introducing solo repertoire appropriate for a first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my teaching according to their level of interest, keeping lessons engaging and fun. Many times that includes playing fiddle tunes, which is very exciting to me too, since I have been involved in Irish culture since I was young. Read More