Violin Lessons Mountain

Instruments: Piano, Violin

Good practicing habits and proper technique are key. Fundamentals are important for the creating of greater skill potential. In the beginning, I do focus on form as well as producing a good tone out of the violin. Piano is similar with form. I believe the skills used in learning music can be used in learning other skills in life. My goal is not to just make a great musicians, but rather to encourage others in their endeavors and to teach a method of practice and learning that can be used in other areas in life. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I believe that no two students are alike. Therefore no single method will produce the best results, if applied blindly. I attempt to identify the strengths of the individual and nurture them to build a satisfactory and most importantly satisfying foundation, from which we can build a successful long term practice. My approach to music and teaching is organic. I see commonalities of expression in nature and music. At the same time it is my opinion that fundamentals need to be mastered absolutely, if musical enjoyment and skill are to be fostered long term. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Cello, Viola

I expect my students to come into their lessons with a notebook and pencil so that they can write down what happens during the lessons. This is how they look back and reflect during their individual practice. As the online teacher, the best I can do is give tips and ideas about playing so that my students can bring their knew knowledge into their own musical experiences; wether that is with another string teacher or with other musical friends. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Violin, Trumpet, Trombone, Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet

My teaching experience began in Webster, South Dakota as their high school band director for 11 years. I was then invited to move back to my college town of Brookings, South Dakota to be their middle school band director. I moved to Sioux Falls and taught in the Catholic School System for a number of years. Then I was fortunate to teach my last 11 years in beautiful southern California where I taught instrumental music at elementary to high school levels. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Viola

For young beginners, I use a lot of the Suzuki Method of teaching. Music games, pitch recognition and rhythms are all introduced as games during the lessons. My adults study from a combination of pieces, exercises, scales and duets. I think understanding the pieces you are playing is important so students learn how to recognize key signatures and time signatures. I have many students participate in school orchestra and youth orchestra programs so students are coached on how to prepare, how to audition and learn how to cope with nerves. Read More