Cello Lessons in Hopedale, MA

Instruments: Cello

For beginning students I start with the Suzuki cello books, and teach books 1 to 5. I reinforce the Suzuki with pop/ non-classical songs, depending on the student's interest. After Suzuki 5, which is well into the intermediate level, I introduce individual works (small concerto's, sonatas, etc.) and cater them towards the student's ability and interest. For younger or beginner students, I reinforce the Suzuki books with sight-reading, and as they progress, I add in etude studies.  Read More

Instruments: Cello

I center the way I teach technique around what "feels" good to a student, especially older students who have already started, to make sure that we are able to prevent and respond to injuries. So, I start with stretching and will frequently refer back to exercises that are meant to integrate physical ease into playing. Aside from that, I try to balance a consistent routine/expectation of things I want to cover (asking for things a week in advance, always playing a scale at the start of the lesson, etc), while also meeting a student where they are at on the day. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Cello Bass Guitar

My teaching experience began junior year of college when we started doing trial "lessons" in our classes and in the surrounding public schools of Lowell. Over that time I acquired specific techniques and methods that I have been able to apply to classroom settings and to individual students alike. Starting towards the end of my senior year I began doing private lessons on Guitar and hope to continue doing them for some time. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I do not use any particular "methods" of teaching, although I did begin out on Suzuki. And while I do believe this is an important methodogy, Suzuki does have its flaws as do most of its kind. As I mentioned earlier, theory, harmony, and music history (as rudimentary as they may be at the beginning) are crucial for all students regardless of their level. The more one knows about the piece, the easier it will be to interpret and understand what the composer is asking for. Read More

Instruments: Cello

In spite of the short amount of time together, I felt it was crucial to inspire as much artistry and musicianship as possible so that students left their experience with more than just learned notes. I currently work as an ensemble coach with the New England Conservatory Preparatory School and teach privately around the Boston area. When working with any student, I aim to bring out the interests that make them want to play the cello. Read More

Instruments: Piano Cello

I am trained in the Suzuki method and will typically start my beginning cello students in this if they are not already interested in another method. If you are interested in a different method I will typically alter my teaching to accommodate. Early lessons typically work on establishing a strong technical foundation so the student will be able to pursue music that speaks to them. Pianists will typically begin with Faber's early music books. Read More

Instruments: Cello

I do not typically use method books.  With younger students, I rely on Suzuki text materials but teach using my own ergonomic, technical and musical methods that I have developed as a cellist in my own playing.   Beginner/Youth Etudes: -Scale Book -Rick Mooney Position Books -Selected Repertoire For more advanced students, I enjoy explaining and/or assigning pages to read from Diran Alexanian's Treatise on the Theory and Technique of the Violoncelliste. Read More