Viola Lessons in North Riverdale, NY

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I use the Essential Elements book 1. This book introduces the student to the instrument in the most practical way while making it fun, and it has the student reading music from the beginning, which I find very important. After this, we go on to Suzuki book 2 and a scale book. Then we move our way through the Suzuki books and start to incorporate more complex scales and etudes. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

When working with younger children, I typically begin with the Suzuki method in order to establish strong musical and technical fundamentals. The Suzuki curriculum is also popular across many music programs in New York, so it provides beginning violinists an opportunity to play music with their peers. For adolescents and adults, I place an earlier emphasis on designing a curriculum based on their musical interests, with equal focus devoted to technique. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

I believe in teaching fundamental principles of technique that can be applied universally, and I encourage students to focus on one basic idea at a time. Scales, arpeggios, etudes and other exercises are an important part of daily practice, reinforced by weekly technique classes. In the study of technique, it is critical that students set attainable goals for themselves, and I help them to organize their practice time with this in mind. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Electric Violin Keyboard

I like to keep my teaching style a balance between being strict but also patient when needed and keeping it fun! I like to have open communication with the student or parents of the student to figure out what kind of teaching style they might prefer. If you want to be challenged and pushed, I can provide more strict instruction to make sure your goals are being met. If a student or their parents prefer to take it easy and just have a good time learning a new instrument, I will also be on board with that! Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

The best part about teaching is seeing students grow as musicians and develop their own musical style and instincts. I try to teach in a way that highlights how, often, improvements can be made instantly, but on the other side, how hard work and diligent practice lead to growth over time. While learning violin or viola, students should be physically comfortable (because the instrument is very awkward at first!), and they should feel able to ask questions and receive expert explanations. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Electric Violin Music Keyboard

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 15 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 10 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Music

I have taught students of all ages from 3 to teenager and adults. I also have prepared students for ABRSM exams, NYSSMA exams, specialized middle school and high school auditions, pre-college programs and other auditions. I have also taught students who are learning just for themselves from reading sheet music. I like to teach students the method and tip to practice, and encourage student challenge something new techniques , and most important is expression from music. Read More