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Bachelor of Music, Stetson University
Suzuki Every Child Can, Studio of Rita Hauck
2005 - William Duckwitz Talent Scholarship
2011 - Associate Principle Second Violin with the Orange County Symphony
2016 - Associate Principle Second Violin with the Orchestral Collective of Orange County
I started playing violin at the age of 4, and started teaching at 17. In 2003, I started playing viola, and in 2005, I started learning cello. In 2010, I graduated from Stetson University with a Bachelor of Music degree with electives in Psychology. I have played as the Associate Principle Second Violin in the Orange County Symphony since 2011. I love teaching because I love to help people, and I love to share my joy of stringed instruments. When I am not practicing or teaching, I am usually hanging out with my husband and dog.
I started teaching privately in 2004, and have been doing so in either my own studio or in the studios of others ever since.. In 2013, I started contracting with the Anaheim City School District to teach string classes in their after-school music program. Since moving to Texas, I have started orchestra programs at two different schools in Dallas county, while continuing to build my own studio. Whether in a private or group setting, the joy on the students' face is the most powerful motivator and greatest reward I know of.
I typically use the Applebaum String Builder method books, and supplement with solo pieces as needed. I encourage regular practice, as students who feel they are progressing and doing well tend to enjoy their instrument more. As they become more advanced, they are encouraged to start giving opinions on what they want to learn. One thing that makes my studio unique is that I don't just teach how to play an instrument, I teach my students how to practice. I feel that it is imperative for my students to learn how to use their practice time most efficiently, because many of them are involved in several extra-curricular activities.
One of the many advantages to private instruction, and what makes me so passionate about it, is that each student can move at their own speed. Private lessons should be tailored to the individual, so that the student can form a solid foundation. I believe in teaching students with encouragement and positivity, so that playing an instrument can be an enjoyable challenge, rather than a wretched slog. It is important to me that my students know I believe in them, and that our goals are agreed upon as a group. I often ask them if they are ready to move on, or if they want to spend more time working on specific pieces or exercises. This helps them become more confident in their skill, and keeps them from feeling overwhelmed. Ultimately, I want my students to feel both joy and pride when they play, no matter what their skill level or rate of progress.
The best
Joanna has lots of patience and she challenges the student to learn a lot of techniques.
Joanna is a wonderful teacher. She is patient and caring. She really relates to my daughter both musically and emotionally. She cares how she's doing and works with her to find out her best learning style. I would highly recommend her to another student.
My teacher is really nice and caring. I know she wants me to learn at my own pace and she is very patient with that. Whenever I get stuck on something she gives me examples or methods that I can work with and understand. I always look forward to seeing her and learning more each week.