Viola Lessons in Lakeside, CT

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

I have a relaxed teaching style. And once a student has the basics, I offer them a selection of pieces to play. After all, who wouldn't want to play music they like, rather than something they have to do! The jokes are free, but my teaching is priceless. I am quite aware, that each student advances at their own rate. And along those lines, they are also taught how to practice correctly. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle Music

With beginner students, regardless of age, I start with the Suzuki pre-twinkle exercises to build a solid foundation of technique, as well as starting ear training exercises and note reading practice. Once a student has mastered the pre-twinkle fundamentals, I move to the first two Suzuki books, and supplement with etudes tailored to the student's level and musical interests. My philosophy is that learning should be organic and enjoyable, so I do my best to introduce repetitive and uninteresting exercises only when necessary, and to make them as entertaining as possible when I do so. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

I teach students of all levels including adult students. I am a traditional teacher in that I focus on laying a secure foundation to prevent any unnatural habits from blocking the students progress in the future and helping the student become completely independent of the teacher. The student learns the skills necessary to teach themselves. I use a structured approach that involves a set of criteria that the student memorizes and is able to use as a checklist of issues to watch out for when practicing. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

After teaching for so many years and after taking lessons myself for most of my life, I know very well that everyone has their own way of learning and growth that happens over time. I like to make things fun by incorporating music that the student is interested in, such as fiddle and Disney songs in addition to the classical repertoire and solid technical foundation that helps playing become easy and enjoyable! Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums French Horn Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn

The student decides how fast he/she will progress by practicing very hard, or by working at a more moderate pace. Once again, I always participate in the learning process, as this method of teaching will enhance the private lesson, and a mutual enjoyment and respect will develop! The student must convey to me what he/she desires to focus on, and there will be a "win/win" situation which is always preferred. Read More

Instruments: Voice Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

In voice, I let my students' goals guide their lessons. Whether it be stage performance, studio recording or personal satisfaction, I will use a variety of techniques to help them reach their individual goals. In violin and viola, I teach the Suzuki method combined with some contemporary and fun improvisation. I teach theory, but also how to communicate with musicians in general. I am a huge fan of the electric violin/fiddle and am comfortable teaching tecniques and about the equipment needed to play. Read More