Viola Lessons in Hawthorne, NY

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning or young students (under age 8), music-related games are incorporated into lessons to encourage positive growth, rather than thinking of playing an instrument as a "chore". Small assignments are expected to be completed weekly, so that the child feels a sense of accomplishment and progress. For older or more advanced students, lessons are structured by a regimen of scales, exercises, and classical pieces. If the student so chooses, classical pieces can be exchanged for pop or contemporary music. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

As I said above, I have been teaching since I was in high school and began studying the Suzuki Method at the age of four. I believe that anyone is able to learn an instrument no matter their age, as long as they stick to a regular practice schedule, have patience, are passionate, and have goals in mind at all times. My goal is to make the learning experience unique for each student. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

This is one reason why I believe personal instruction (rather than learning from books or through online resource) is almost a requirement for progressing quickly on violin and viola. I always try to acknowledge my students accomplishments and push them to become the best musicians they can be. At the same time, I recognize that each student learns at a different pace and for different reasons. As a slow learner myself growing up, I believe that everyone can learn how to play great music with good instruction. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. 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. 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 Viola

I believe every student needs a comfortable, fun and non-judgmental environment to thrive. My main goal is to help them achieve their goals (passing exams, getting a scholarship, joining an orchestra, performing at school, playing their favorite pop songs at home, etc) and to enjoy the journey. I am easy-going and understanding but I expect all my students to practise from one lesson to the next and I always set clear and realistic goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Synthesizer Double Bass Music Keyboard Acoustic Guitar

For adolescent beginner piano students I recommend 'John Thompson's Earliest Piano Course'. In this series Books I-III build a strong base upon which a student can specialize in different genre and styles graduating from book III. For adult students beginning I would suggest John Thompon's Adult (or Modern) Piano Course. The pacing of this book is far more accelerated and more in keeping with an adult pace to work with. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle Music

In my lessons, I balance technique with musicality; though learning the violin requires discipline, I maintain a comfortable, friendly atmosphere while pushing pupils to achieve results. As a teacher I prioritize inspiration while providing structure for growth and flexibility to accommodate individual needs. This means setting realistic goals, regular practice routines, and acknowledging accomplishments, preferably in a recital or performance. I try to pass on my own passion for music while nurturing my students' interests in a safe environment that cultivates growth and progress. Read More