Viola Lessons in Shawnee, KS

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Clarinet

It is important to me that each of my students learns to love their instrument. But, even more than the love of their instrument, is the importance of knowing and understanding one's instrument. I offer positive reinforcement, encouraging my student in realistic goals. I acknowledge accomplishments that help fuel mystudent's desires to progress. However, I do not hide from the fact that pursuing music is a discipline. A well structured and commited practice time offers the best benefits. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginners I use a method book for learning how to read music and learn music theory.  Once the basics are attained I introduce scales and etudes to build on the technical aspects of playing the instrument.  Solo books are also added to the repertoire for the student so that they can use everything they have learned thus far and express that in a piece of music. Younger children will not do as much music reading in the beginning of lessons. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Electric Violin

I aim to motivate students through encouragement and enthusiasm. I believe it is important to keep lessons fun and engaging while maintaining focus on technique. During each lesson, I always find something to compliment the student on because I believe it is important that the student recognizes their improvement. I do set weekly goals for my students. They include practice time, a new technique, and memorization of music. It is very rewarding to see my students excitement when they have finally developed a new technique or learned a piece of music they have been excited about. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I will give my student a scale, and Etude and a piece from violin repertoire. My essential teaching style is based on the Galamians Principles of Violin Playing Teaching. I believe that starting with fundamentals of violin techniques, left hand and right hand techniques is essential. After mastering the fundamentals, students are able to grow into their own musicalityand find a connection between the techniques and interpretation, where I would teach the importance of musical phrasing and understanding the structure of a piece of music. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I adjust my teaching style to compliment each student individually. My goal is for each student to enjoy playing their instrument, but I believe that the personal improvement of each student is vital for their continued interest and passion. I take it upon myself to make sure that my teaching is resulting in personal enjoyment and improvement! I also believe that studying a musical instrument is useful for developing things like problem solving skills, perseverance, building good habits, having a good work ethic, and being responsible. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

The experience I had started with was a community center in an underprivileged area of Kansas city in 1973 as a Senior in High School and extended to many retail establishments of the Kansas city metro and beyond. I have also taught private lessons in my residence and in homes of many students during the pandemic. For nearly 20 years I have taught all ages at the Kansas city strings in Merriam Kansas as independently contracted teacher. Read More