Viola Lessons in Cynwyd, PA

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students I start with Suzuki books until about book 5 and then begin to branch out into other repertoire.  I teach students to read music as well as basic theory. I also incorporate playing by ear and improvisation. These are important skills which help students develop into flexible and well rounded musicians.   Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I initially focus on their setup and how to hold the instrument properly. Having this solid foundation helps in the future to avoid injuries and negative habits. After that, I use the Essential Elements books and Suzuki method books as a guideline with supplemental materials. At this point I would also begin introducing solo repertoire appropriate for a first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my teaching according to their level of interest, keeping lessons engaging and fun. Many times that includes playing fiddle tunes, which is very exciting to me too, since I have been involved in Irish culture since I was young. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. By trying to find out what inspires the student, I can successfully tailor my instruction to their wants and needs. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Fiddle Keyboard

Nothing is more rewarding than seeing one of my students develop a passion for music, in fact I have had several students pursue music education degrees as a result of my love and dedication to teaching! Therefore, it's important that each student progresses at his or her own pace. I encourage this by setting realistic goals for my students at each lesson. Acknowledging accomplishments helps fuel a students desire to progress, and makes students eager to learn more. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

I received my Bachelor's in Performance from Eastman School of Music. Shortly thereafter I joined the Boise Philharmonic Orchestra. In Boise, I taught privately as well as at Boise State University. In addition to instrumental lessons, I taught classes in music theory, aural skills, and chamber music. Recently, I performed with the Symphony No. One chamber orchestra in Baltimore, premiering new works written for the ensemble. Throughout my career I have had the opportunity to perform across the United States and in Europe. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Keyboard

Music is deeply personal; one must get to know each student's own personality, interests, and connections to music. Early on (both in the teaching relationship and in each lesson) one must assess where the student is, as to technical and musical growth, and with the music at hand. Then one finds, models, explains and encourages the next steps the student can achieve. Clear guidance and dialogue about what will happen outside the studio (listening, practice, rehearsal, performance) helps turn the weekly cycle of lessons into an upward spiral of progress, achievement, and reward. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My passion for teaching has been a big part of my career. I have been teaching violin since 2011- providing individual and group instrumental lessons in music schools and serving as an adjunct faculty (Artist-in-Residence position) of performance studies (solo and chamber) at Boyer College of Music and Dance, Temple University. These have provided me considerable experience teaching one on one and classroom settings discovering and enhancing their innate knowledge through an individual approach to each student. Read More