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Bachelor Degree: Ithaca College , Master Degree: Penn State
Hello! I'm a passionate and motivated instructor who loves working with students and sharing my love of music. In 2021, I graduated from Penn State with a Master of Arts in Violin Performance. I also have a duel Bachelor of Arts degree from Ithaca College in Violin Performance and Music Education. Currently, I am a public school orchestra director and freelance musician, and I also teach private lessons. I've had the opportunity to play in many venues across the United States. My most recent performance was with the Cambridge Chamber Ensemble for their performance of "Savitri."
My teaching experience dates back to my high school days, as I began teaching under the mentorship of my orchestra director. Since then, I have continued teaching privately, in public schools, and at the university level. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. If a student isn't having fun in their lessons, then I'm not doing my job! My students are encouraged to enter competitions and recitals, as well as work on composing their own original material, so they can feel good about their accomplishments and stay motivated to learn. I'm always looking to bring on new students of all ages!
For beginning students who are children, I typically start with a modified Suzuki method, starting with rote learning and eventually progressing to notated music. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. Regardless of ability level, I always incorporate scales and etudes to continually improve on the student's technique.
Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at their own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a student's desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instructions to their wants and needs. A big part of my philosophy is creating independent students who will advocate for themselves. I do this by teaching them how to practice, and by giving them the tools they need to break down difficult passages.