Violin Lessons in Youngwood, PA

Instruments: Violin

My teaching experience began close to 10 years ago, beginning with private lessons and eventually moving towards chamber music and alternative styles. My performance experience began when I was six years old, and I've performed in many different types of areas, including: Solo, chamber music, orchestra, classical and fiddle competitions, musicals, small jazz ensembles, and chamber orchestra. Being actively engaged in the professional scene allows me to provide knowledge of the expectations and necessities of a successful musician, all of which I pass on to my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Viola Ukulele Music Acoustic Guitar

As I said before in my experience, I am a certified Suzuki violin teacher by the Suzuki Association of the Americas, and it is for that reason I principally use the Suzuki Methodology. However, I know every student is different. It is for that reason that I apply differently to each of them. I encourage my students to work toward different goals that we set up in the beginning of their lessons. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola

I follow the American String Teachers Association's curriculum for orchestra education as a guideline for the skills and techniques that students must develop. The skills are developmentally sequenced and build upon one another like a stack of blocks. In each of my lessons, I assess what students know and what students could practice, and together, we remediate and master each skill or technique. I also frequently ask for student input on what music we are playing and what the student's goals are in order to better tailor each lesson. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I have a "less talk, more play" approach to music. People learn instruments because they want to play music, and that is always the focus in my lessons. While some instructors incessantly talk about theory, history, and other music concepts, I prefer to keep the talking to a minimum and have my students play their instrument as much as possible. I also tend to move at a quick pace, but I always adapt my pacing to meet the needs of the student. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

I started teaching while I was a graduate student at Carnegie Mellon University.  I taught part time private lessons and worked for a Saturday Morning music program teaching Strings and Music Theory.  I have taught in public schools for 12 years teaching strings/orchestra to elementary, middle and high school students.  I have taught students individually, in small groups and in large groups and orchestras.  I have adjudicated at competitions and festivals and taught private lessons in violin, cello and viola over the last 30 years. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Violin Flute Piccolo Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

My teaching methods are much different than what I grew up with. I remember at times being so worried to go to my lessons. I want my time with the students to be positive, open and understanding. In terms of books and repertoire, I do love using Hal Leonard for beginners. Once fundamentals are in place we can explore repertoire together so that the student is truly learning music they love and enjoy. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For younger students (less than 5), I think Suzuki method would probably work best! We would focus on small exercises to establish good posture and sound while learning mainly through imitation and listening. When a student is able, I do encourage some theory as to read music fluently and gain understanding of basic musical concepts. At this age, I also encourage weekly technical exercises (scales, etudes) to improve ability and fluidity of playing. Read More