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Bachelor Degree: SUNY Fredonia
SUNY Fredonia Honors Violin Recital - 2012
Concerto Competition Winner (High School) - 2008
Hi there! I'm a dedicated and passionate violinist, teacher and all-around music enjoyer living in the Rochester area. I currently hold a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from SUNY Fredonia and have enjoyed a 10-year career so far teaching in classrooms and in the studio. Although my main job is now editing, I am happiest when playing in ensembles. Some high points were performing onstage with Yo Yo Ma with the Fredonia College Symphony Orchestra and playing an entertainment venue with a ukulele star from one of French Polynesia's preeminent folk groups. I have also performed solo recitals across the U.S. including in Salt Lake City, Tampa and Los Angeles. Since 2022, I've played in the first violin section in the Penfield Symphony Orchestra, and I am looking forward to starting a string quartet in the Rochester area. No matter what the future holds, music will always be a part of it!
My teaching career began as a high school senior. I began taking time out of lunch and weekends to teach friends and beginners to play. It was such a joy that I continued that pattern through university and then jumped on the opportunity to start my own studio after graduating. My business included a music store studio space and traveling to some students' homes—teaching violin, viola, cello, double bass, piano, guitar and even ukulele! Whether taking in beginners simply wanting to learn a new skill or advanced players preparing for solo competitions or auditions, I enjoy helping people of any age, skill level, or interest acheive their goals and feel good about their accomplishments!
For young beginners, I typically start with method books and repertiore that align with the student's school orchestra program. After progressing through fundamentals and developing routine practice habits, I introduce solo and ensemble repertiore in a variety of styles including classical, fiddle, folk and modern. Because I have taught lessons in public school based on New York State standards of education, I incorporate music theory, composition, singing, history and culture into lessons. These are slipped in seamlessly to maintain interest and to allow for well-rounded development. For more advanced players or adult learners, I will accommadate your needs and interests. Whether you want to jam on two-part fiddle tunes or get nail down repertiore for a college audition, I'll help you reach your musical goals.
Making music together is about connecting with each other as humans—and that is what I emphasize from the first lesson. I want to get to know the real you before I get to hear you play—your interests, your goals. This allows me to see your playing as an extension of your personality. From there, learning is a matter of learning the “vocab”—the technique on the instrument that lets your unique personality shine through. I do stress mastering technique fundamentals, but we do this in bite-sized pieces so that you can sense your progress. That said, I prefer a relaxed, fun learning environment because music is not always about performing, competing, and acheiving—but it is always about having fun.