Violin Lessons Ramsey County, MN

Instruments: Violin, Viola

I have been playing violin and viola for over fifteen years, and over the course of that time I have studied piano and theory as well. My piano background has helped immensely in teaching strings, and I highly recommend piano experience for any musician, though I don't require it. I have been teaching for over three years and have greatly enjoyed sharing my passion with students. A consistent practice schedule and help from parents is essential to the success of any musician, especially young musicians, and I highly encourage this. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Voice, Violin, Cello, Viola, Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet, Drums, Bass Guitar, Organ, Synthesizer, Accordion, Banjo, Ukulele, Mandolin, Recorder, Electric Violin, Fiddle, Double Bass, French Horn, Tuba, Piccolo, Mallet Percussion, Orchestral Percussion, Oboe, Bassoon, English Horn, Conga, Music, Keyboard, Electric Guitar, Classical Guitar, Acoustic Guitar

My teaching style is based on each student's needs. Some students like to learn at a fast pace and others like to go slower. I listen carefully and ask questions, basing instruction on what creates success. My approach is to make learning fun. I bring markers and stickers and other visual aids to create a unique learning process. I like to use games and sayings to help remember things, many of which I've developed over the years. Read More

Instruments: Violin

For beginners, particularly children, I use the Suzuki method due to the emphasis on learning the instrument before learning how to read notes. I do this in part because, regardless of method, listening to experts play pieces that you are working on is a big part of string playing, and the Suzuki method has become standardized enough that the beginner and intermediate pieces have readily available recordings. Once a baseline of the instrument is established, I add outside repertoire and workbooks. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Voice, Violin, Cello

Guitar: For children, I prefer the FJH Young Beginner Guitar method, but for adults I would prefer Hal Leonard if the student is looking to learn both chords and melody using folk music. I could also teach guitar based on gospel and Christian praise music if the student prefers. I have taught students with an interest in rock music, but only to give them the basic foundation skills of chords and notes to build on with another teacher who has more of a rock music speciality. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Violin, Viola, Fiddle, Keyboard

My style of teaching is different for each student. After meeting the student, I suggest setting a goal, working towards that goal for 4 -6 weeks - after which an assessment is made by me to determine how best to continue. For the younger student I often demonstrate, or play with them. Encouraging recital participation, finding the right performance piece helps me determine what inspires the student, young or old. Negativity in lessons is not acceptable and never happens with me as your teacher. Read More