Cello Lessons in Avonmore, PA

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: Cello

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Some exercises to get into the position to play and the knowledge about the instrument. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Read More

Instruments: Cello

While I have a general curriculum, I am very flexible and try to adjust to my every student individually. Generally I like to employ books by Suzuki, as I find them very methodical, as well as easily accessible. I supplement the Suzuki books by Alwin Schroeder's 170 foundation studies, and lots of scales and technical exercises. I encourage active listening and work with a student to build confidence performing. In addition to learning the instrument I advise on the business side of music making, making sure you have the knowledge and tools to plug your skills and talent in real life. Read More

Instruments: Cello

. At my students' first lessons, I get an idea of their unique skill sets. Even with my beginners, I can tell what musical abilities they may naturally have. From there, I talk to the student about their goals for cello playing. Some may want strictly classical music training and others may want to expand into current popluar music or jazz. Once we establish a direction, I can assign appropriate method books and pieces that will put them on the right path to reach their musical goals. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

My favorite quote is: "All students have gifts, they just open their presents have different times."  I work with students where they are and at their pace.  I start beginners with Essential Elements 2000 for Strings.  As students progress I use Samuel Applebaum method books, traditional etudes like Wolfhardt and Sevick, Suzuki books and solo pieces as appropriate.  I teach Traditional Classical string instruction.  I will work to find pieces that students find interesting and keep my instruction engaging and fun for all of my students of all ages. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola

In all of my teaching, I combine my students' interests with the leading pedagogy practices in string education to develop the foundational skills of the instrument as well as a fondness for it. There are several method books that I use such as Suzuki, Schroeder's Cello Etudes, and Fiddler's Philharmonic, however, I tailor each lesson path to each student based on student interest as well as proper sequencing. I generally start with these method books, especially for cello, for beginning students. Read More