Jason W
Instruments: Guitar, Violin, Mandolin, Electric Violin, Fiddle
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, Funk
Jason W
Instruments: Guitar, Violin, Mandolin, Electric Violin, Fiddle
Styles:
Classical, Jazz, Pop, Rock, Blues, Folk, Funk
Where I Teach:
In Your Home
My Studio
Ages Taught: 7-80
ABOUT
Degrees / Training / Special Info:
BS, University of Colorado, Anthropology TEFL Teaching Certification, I to I
Awards:
1993- Concertmaster- Lake Forest High School.
1996- Concertmaster- University of Colorado at Denver Orchestra.
2003- Voted Best Indie/Folk Violinist- SonicSF Magazine.
2004- Performed with the Native String Quartet at Ravinia Festival, Highland Park, IL.
2009- Performed with The Barbary Ghosts at Great American Music Hall, San Francisco
2012- Coordinated monthly classical and rock performances + workshops for children and teenagers in 5 Indonesian villages with the Rock Kampung program.
Overview:
I'm a lifelong musician, having started on the violin when I was 4 years old, and I am very grateful where that privilege has taken me. Music is an integral part of my life, and I credit great teachers and perserverance with how far I've come. I've performed professionally on violin and guitar with numerous ensembles and orchestras. This includes shows at the renowned Great American Music Hall in San Francisco, CA and Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL. I also coordinated and participated in performance and workshop events in various small villages in Indonesia. None of this would have been possible without the guidance of both great teachers and my incredible parents. Support, and a solid foundation is what can instill a love of music in a child, even an adult just starting off on an instrument. And even though technique and foundation are so useful in the develpoment of an artist, I play and teach because it's fun, and that's what I aim to inspire in my students.
EXPERIENCE
My teaching experience began when I arrived in San Franciso about 15 years ago. It has developed from a part time side job at that time, to an established and integral part of my life and career. As my musical career and experience have grown, so too has my passsion for teaching. And for the last 5 years, I have been teaching ESL in Indonesia, while continuing my musical tutoring, and this has helped me incredibly in relating to students' needs, as well as in recognizing the role of a student's background and environment in their learning process. I am a strong believer in technique and instilling a good practice ethic, but my main goal as a teacher is to connect with a student, and make sure they're having fun. As we all know, we are always learning when we're open, comfortable and enjoying ourselves.
METHODS USED
My preferred method for very young students has been the Suzuki method, as I believe a well trained ear continues to be our best musical learning tool later in life as well. When students progress to reading, the full line of Suzuki books can of course be utilized, but it is very advisable to incorporate additional materials and techniques. The Kodaly method is also useful and even more traditional 'reading first' techniques can be used if requested. For older students or professional musicians I take into account their musical goals and ambitions. For instance, students more interested in live band performance or genres of music other than classical, I teach concentrating on the ability to improvise, interact with other members of the group, and even which gear to use.
LESSON STYLE
We do this- music- to enrich our lives, make us more intelligent and give us inspiration, and this in turn gives other people beauty and inspiration. I'm teaching and playing because I love doing it, and it benefits all facets of my life. That's what I want to see in my students as well. But because we're happy doing it, doesn't always mean it should be easy. We have to practice, practice, and keep practicing. But the sense of accomplishment after playing a tough piece, or the feeling of playing a great show is unparalleled, and I hope to convey this to my students and inspire them to get into the music.
PHOTOS & VIDEOS
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