Thao H  
Instruments: Piano, Violin, Viola
Styles: Classical, Country

My teaching experience started in 2010 during my college freshman year when I was employed by the Music Institute of North Texas and the Carrolton Independent School District as a private violin instructor. On top of violin pedagogy, I was also employed by the University of North Texas Learning Center as a Supplemental Instructor for Music Theory. When teaching, I try to incorporate basic music theory into performance, as I feel both are important to gain a greater understanding and appreciation for muisc.  For all my students, I encourage keeping a daily pracitce log recording time practiced and musical goals so they can see progress and be motivated to contiue learning. One important point I stress is to always relax and have fun when performing, whether it be in a concert, competition, or recital. I make sure that each student truly enjoys music and is proud of his/her accomplishments. 

For younger students who are beginning, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. This book has great materials for setting up the violin and bow hold, reading notes, rhythm and other musical markings, and introducing basic music theory such as time and key signatures. Also, this book incorporates the foundation of all musical learning, scales and arpeggios, into fun exercises that are enjoyable for every student. For older students who have more experience, I have a range of etudes from Sevcik to Kreutzer that can futher develop and solidify a good foundation of technique. For musical training, I use solo repertoire from Suzuki and other sources that are appropriate for each student's level so that he/she can be healthily challenged musically and technically while feeling accomplished during performances.