Viola Lessons in Pomeroy, PA

Instruments: Violin Viola

My aspirations as a violin instructor are to enable students to identify, understand, and assess challenges they contend to search for possible solutions. I am a proponent of self-directed learning, and intentionally create situations in class that allow the students to learn through the unconventional approach. I also encourage students to come up with their own exercises and possible solutions for any challenge they encounter. In order to measure their learning, I require students to demonstrate the process of searching for possible solutions in class. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

My name is Madeleine and I am an orchestra director in the state of Maryland, specializing in cello, violin, and viola. As an educator, my career has seen me build orchestra programs in Maryland, educating and organizing programs for individual students as well as larger ensembles. With a Bachelors Degree in Music Education and a Masters in Conducting, specializing in strings, I have had experience in many aspects of what it takes to be a strings musician. 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: 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: Violin Cello Viola

For beginning students who are children, I typically start with a beginner method such as Essential Elements or Sound Innovations. 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 Viola

I first began teaching in high school, where I would tutor the younger middle school students. As my education progressed, so did my teaching experience. I attended American University, where I received my bachelor's degree in music performance, and then continued to study at Northwestern University, where I received my master's degree. After graduating, I started working at an El Sistema inspired program, called Sistema Ravinia in Chicago, where I was one of the first teachers. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I generally start with Suzuki Method, Sassmannshaus, and my own methods which I have created over the years. I emphasize the importance of ear training, becuase that is what allows us to know if we are playing correctly. For intermediate and advanced students, we work very heavily on warm ups, scales, etudes, and repertoire. Repertoire is a personal thing, and many of my adult students already have an idea of what they would like to play. Read More