Viola Lessons in Fairview Village, PA

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching philosophy follows the belief that musical understanding and maturity are easier to discuss once the student is able to execute a variety of technical details. I often say that technique is teaching a student how to make ten shades of blue, but musicality is deciding which shade of blue to use. Musicality can be more subjective than technique, although there are certain guidelines for each period (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, etc.). Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Electric Violin Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I recommend that my students start off with a short amount of time practicing so it doesn't seem too overwhelming, and then you can add time from there. As my students start playing songs they enjoy and connect with, I find that their practicing time increases and it is usually because they want to and it doesn't feel as much like a chore. This is how I feel playing an instrument should be! Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Fiddle Keyboard

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Suzuki level books, String Explorer and Fiddletime joggers to increase sightreading and listening skills. Once the student has progressed to have a grasp of the fundamentals, I will begin to introduce solo repertoire appropriate for their first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my instruction accordingly to keep the lessons engaging and fun, no matter their ability level. 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 Voice Violin Viola Keyboard

Excellent, nurturing Suzuki violin pedagogy - treating music as a mother tongue to absorb, imitate, and engage with - informs my methods for beginning and intermediate students. Gradually, as the student shows readiness, we blend in the traditional yet humane study of expert violin playing and thoughtful musicianship modeled for me in Dorothy DeLay's masterclass. As distinct from many string players, I am also a devoted and accomplished singer. So breathing, posture, phrasing, color, line, and articulation are key to my approaches to making and teaching music, and thus to helping my students x22singx22 through their playing. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have complemented my music education by performing continuously over the last 20 years, including many cities and stages around the world, from my early years in junior ensembles to The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia, Symphony in C orchestra, Lancaster Symphony Orchestra, and the iPalpiti chamber orchestra of international laureates. Probably my greatest blessing and professional accomplishment is being invited to perform as the soloist as well as a chamber and orchestra musician at prestigious venues such as Carnegie Hall (NYC), Napa Valley Performing Arts Center at Lincoln Theater (CA), Kimmel Center (Philadelphia PA), Walt Disney Hall (Los Angeles CA), John F. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I'm a passionate, friendly, and motivated instructor who loves working with children and adults of all ages. I love to be able to share my love of music, both through performing and through teaching. I received my master's degree from Northwestern University and since then, I have moved to the Philadelphia area, where I teach through a variety of programs, including Musicopia, the Philadelphia Youth Orchestras, the Music School of Delaware, and the Darlington Arts Center. Read More