Viola Lessons South

Instruments: Violin, Viola, Fiddle

For my younger students, I typically start them out with the Essential Elements (Hal Leonard) book. As the student progresses through the book, I will introduce pieces of repertoire that reflect the student's abilities. Students are more than welcome to share music that they would like to learn, which is important in maintaining their passion for playing. For my adult students, I typically work with them on songs of their choice and guide them on how to play it on their instrument. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Viola

Once I have identified students’ individualities, I acknowledge their strengths and focus my teaching on their weaknesses. For some, this may mean reevaluation of their posture and technique, as well as their consequent effects on tone production, shifting, intonation, and ease of playing. Many of the individual actions that make up technique can be broken down into several elements. The study of basics technical exercises is a practical way for students to overcome bad habits that have been ingrained over the years. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Cello, Viola

For any student, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements series. This method book will help teach the basic fundamentals needed to progress on the instrument. For children, I will continue through the method book series while supplementing it with short popular pieces that may be of interest to the student. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep it fun and enjoyable. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Viola

Nothing makes me happier than seeing my students progress each week and to see how excited they are when they finish each level. It is beyond rewarding to see my students proud of what they accomplished and know they worked so hard to get where they are! I love helping others be able to tap into their creative side and help them express themselves through the music of their choosing, it is also amazing when my students decide they have a song they want to write and are able to create that song from their hearts and souls. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Voice, Violin, Viola, Fiddle

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Essential Element's for Strings or Beth Lavender's A Better Beginning. These books introduce the fundamental position and note reading techniques in a logical progression. After the student has grasped the fundamentals, they are welcome to bring in contemporary songs. I find that a mixture of fundamentals and fun recognizable songs keeps students both progressing technically and connected to the music. Read More