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Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance from the University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 2013 Masters of Music in Viola Performance from Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 2015
2014 InterHarmony International Music Festival in Aricodosso, Italy
2013 Participant in the 2013 Lionel Tertis International Viola Competition, Isle of Man, UK
2012 InterHarmony International Music Festival in Arcidosso, Italy
2011 Beijing International Music Festival in Beijing, China
2009 Great Wall Academy for the Next Generation of String Soloists in Beijing, China
I'm a passionate and motivated instructor who loves working with students and sharing my love of music. 2013, I graduated from the University of Arizona with a Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance and am currently a graduate student at Temple University. I have had many opportunities to perform as well as study all over the world. When I was 18, I traveled to China for further study at the Shanghai Conservatory of Music. That was an adventure! So, of course I could not wait to go back again and have been back to perform and study many times. I have also performed in England, Italy and all over the USA.
My teaching experience goes back to my high school days, as I began teaching privately 7 years ago, and have consistently taught in my home studio for the last several years. Encouraging regular practice, as well as focused practice, are some of the key points I like to emphasize for all of my students. Practicing correctly, as well as consistently, motivates students as they see their exponential progress. All seriousness aside, having fun and playing from the heart is the most important thing to remember. This is why we play in the first place and if I can help facilitate that, then I'm doing my job and that makes me very happy!
For beginning students, I generally start with Suzuki Method, Sassmannshaus, and my own methods which I have created over the years. I emphasize the importance of ear training, becuase that is what allows us to know if we are playing correctly. For intermediate and advanced students, we work very heavily on warm ups, scales, etudes, and repertoire. Repertoire is a personal thing, and many of my adult students already have an idea of what they would like to play. However, I do love the Suzuki Method's choices of repertoire and I will typically work from this methodology, unless we have discussed otherwise.
The most rewarding part of teaching is seeing my students excel and develop their own passions for music. Each one of my students is different, and so each lesson I teach is specific to that student. Acknowledging accomplishments and setting weekly goals for my students allows them to meet those challenges and see the success that comes from all their hard work! It's really a wonderful thing to see.
Amber is a great teacher. Very skilled and very friendly and easy to get along with. She makes learning fun and enjoyable.
Amber is personal and cares about her students. She is flexible in her schedule and maintains a professional attitude in her lessons. Her want for her students to succeed makes her excel as a teacher. She is very knowledgeable about music and extremely experienced. Additionally, she includes external activities aside from lessons for the students who wish to advance themselves externally. Really a great teacher who offers great opportunity.