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I am a violin teacher passionate about sharing the joy and beauty of music through high-quality instruction. In December 2023 I graduated with my Bachelor's degree in Music and Psychology from Andrews University, where I had been studying under the tutelage of Carla Trynchuk. My goal is to use principles of psychology to make learning music as engaging, understandable, and fulfilling as possible. I emphasize musical excellence through mental health, research-based practice strategies, injury prevention, and embracing the musician as a whole human.
I have been teaching violin to children and/or adults since 2018 and am currently a registered Suzuki teacher. I served as teacher for the violin program at Peace Music Academy, a music school in Khon Kaen, Thailand, before coming to Michigan and starting my private studio here. I have also taught at summer music camps for children, teaching group lessons, improvisation, and introduction to violin. I have additionally initiated online violin workshop for kids as well as workshops on mental practice for musicians of all ages.
I teach violin with the Suzuki method and philosophy. Beyond a system of books, the Suzuki philosophy emphasizes that every child can learn to play regardless of any "inborn talent." Learning an instrument is much like learning a language: children learn their native tongue effortlessly through immersion in the language and plenty of practice. Children similarly can learn an instrument beautifully but this requires lots of listening, a safe environment, and parents/caretakers fully engaged to help the child learn and grow from mistakes. I as the teacher provide the knowledge and guidance for your child, and you as the parent/caretaker create the enriching home environment by helping your child practice and listen to recordings. My students learn to play by ear before reading music, but I implement note-reading early on so that they can also learn to sightread proficiently. For adults, I tailor the lessons according to the needs and interests of the student.
As a double-major in psychology and music, I combine both disciplines in my teaching to help students learn in a holistic, effective way. I love implementing research-based practice and performance techniques to help students at home and onstage. Healthy mindset is also one of my biggest priorities for my students, as I don't believe that one must sacrifice mental health in order to attain musical excellence. My goal is to create an environment where students feel safe, accomplished, challenged, and fulfilled.