Viola Lessons Southwest

Instruments: Piano, Guitar, Voice, Violin, Cello, Viola, Bass Guitar, Harp, Recorder, Electric Violin, Fiddle, Double Bass, Music, Keyboard, Classical Guitar, Acoustic Guitar

I start by gathering information about a student's goals and inspirations, and prior knowledge/experience. From there, we develop a plan for warmup exercises, technical exercises, literature, sight-reading, ear-training and listening excerpts to be studied. I determine whether the student needs to begin learning primarily by ear or using some kind of written notation. We find a schedule that will work with both of us. Most students have a regular weekly time, but some students need a variable time due to their individual schedule so we work that out in advance. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Cello, Viola

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. Read More

Instruments: Piano, Violin, Viola

My approach to teaching is gentle and warm while maintaining high standards of excellence for both my instruction as well as my expectations of my students. When we both strive to do our best work each lesson, we have fun and learn new things which leads to more interest and pride on the student's part. There is nothing more exciting in teaching than seeing students progress and be proud of what they have done. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Viola, Recorder, Fiddle

For beginning students, I start by teaching them how to hold the instrument. Violinists and violists would learn how to pluck, and a beginning recorder student would learn how to blow air correctly into the instrument. I also teach all students correct left hand position. If students do not know how to read music, I teach them how to read the notes using words and phrases they would remember (ex. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Viola

For more advanced players or even older students, I tend to match a certain technique book, Baroque-Classical literature, or Suzuki Book level to their skills sets, such as Mazas or Sevcik etudes, or Bach Suites/Partitas to further boost the skills they have while targeting skills that need more foundation. In addition, I have researched various method books and arrangements for fun small performances my students can create for their friends and family. Read More