Viola Lessons in Berlin, MA

Instruments: Violin Viola

I began teaching privately three years ago after earning both of my BM degrees from the University of Connecticut. Many students I have taught have numerous activities such as ensembles, sports teams, church, and other commitments. This is why I encourage students to practice daily with efficient techniques so they are able to continue to improve during their busy schedules. Also, I make an effort for my students to have fun in their lessons while having constructive criticism so the students are not discouraged and stay engaged. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

Also performing in concerts gives them goals to work for so I try to have my students to perform at some assisted living places and more several times a year and the more they perform usually the better they improve. It can be encouraging to see that others make mistakes too and that noone is perfect. I like students to learn how to read as soon as they can, but I honor the suzuki idea that it is good to learn to play the first few pieces by ear so listening does not get lost in learning to read. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Viola Banjo Ukulele

 Stephen is a graduate of Columbia University. A composer of more than fifty pieces, his music has been performed by both chamber groups and orchestras in the US and abroad. The most notable performers of his compositions include the Gregg Smith Singers, Stitching Combinatie van Utrechtse Muziekbelangen, New Calliope Singers, Group for Contemporary Music, and the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble. Stephen continues to work as a freelance guitarist and conductor, performing in various national venues with the Gregg Smith Singers, the Group for Contemporary Music, the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble, and the Composers Ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students who are children, I like to start with Essential Elements and then progress to the Suzuki Method books. Later I might supplement this material with etudes and duets or pop song arrangements. For adults, I first determine their priorities and then focus my instruction on what will keep their lessons fun and engaging. Whether the student is interested in playing chamber music with friends, participating in a community orchestra, or just improving their skills so that they can experience the joy of making music, I am happy to tailor the lessons to meet their needs, Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

Although I do not teach Suzuki method, I do like to use the Suzuki method books as a resource for teaching younger students. The first piece my school-aged students learn will always be one that they know the tune to already: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, for example. Once students are comfortable in holding and using the violin, I introduce a little bit of note reading at each lesson. For adult students, understanding of the instrument will come much faster, so I love getting my students to play music with which they can focus on making a beatiful sound while still learning the fundamentals. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Violin Viola Ukulele Mandolin Acoustic Guitar

My story in the music begins with the study of Venezuelan folk music. Later, as a violist, I was a founding member of the Youth Symphony Orchestra "Raimundo Pereira" (One of the Orchestras of "The Sistema") in Venezuela. I studied lyrical and popular song with Masters William Alvarado and Inés Feo La Cruz. I have two records production, the first, named Por el Medio Oriente, it is a musical project that fuses the sounds and rhythms prevalent in Middle Eastern music and culture and the second named Preludio y Coda, a romantic CD. Read More