Viola Lessons West

Instruments: Violin, Viola

Ben Gardner initially wanted to play the cello, but instead chose the violin to make the walk to school easier. He quickly fell in love with the instrument, and 16 years later he holds 2 degrees in Violin Performance and has appeared as a soloist and ensemble member across the Western United States in both Classical ensembles and in orchestras specializing in Historical Performance Practice, playing on historically authentic instruments. Ben holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, and a Master’s degree from the University of Oregon. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Viola

For beginning students, we always start with how to hold the instrument, parts of the instrument and string names, and then begin playing open strings. This may take a few lessons. Placing the left hand fingers is usually the last step before playing an A scale and then Twinkle. Setting a foundation is more important than going quickly, so many of my students spend a number of months on Twinkle before starting to move more quickly with Lightly Row. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Cello, Viola, Double Bass

I taught the students from beginners to very advanced college students in traditional classic way. I taught big string classes and private lessons in different levels. I was assistant professor in University of Mississippi for ten years and taught applied cello and string Bass lessons. Many of my students went to further professional studies and started their music career. And also, I have many students who went to other majors in college but still keeping very active in the area of music, playing community orchestra, start their own private chamber music group, become very positive part of their community. Read More

Instruments: Violin, Viola

Hello, I love both music, the violin, and working with children of all ages! I recently graduated with a Master's degree in violin pedagogy and moved to Pasadena, CA. While I am trained as a classical violinist with an undergraduate degree in violin performance, I also was privileged to work with the bluegrass fiddler/songwriter Becky Buller for several years along with performing bluegrass music with my family (I am the oldest of 9 children and we all play the violin along with many other instruments and play and sing together). Read More

Instruments: Violin, Viola

My teaching style may be very detailed, but I believe that a certain level of firmness, honesty, as well as kindness is needed to provide a successful violin learning experience. I want each student to be able to have fun while also feeling that they are improving as well. Each student progresses at their own pace and I will tailor my teaching according to each students unique learning abilities. I believe that what is most important for a student isn't winning competitions but is finding their own love and inspiration for the music they are creating. Read More