Viola Lessons in Steger, IL

Instruments: Viola

One of my primary goal when I am working with student is to set a goal point, and what we want to achieve while working together. Such as, we would like to pick a simple goal as learning a favorite piece within time frame to applying to a competition or festival student wishes to aim their goal. As a instructor, it is very rewarding to see the student students are working hard for their goals and making steps in order to achieve the goal. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have 17 years of teaching experience starting while I was still in graduate school. My main focus is having students practice regularly, like the piece they are playing, and gain a passion for their instrument. I always play with my students in order for them to gain experience in chamber music as well as to make sure they know their parts well. My students are always encouraged to audition for local youth orchestras, join chamber music groups, and are given opportunities to give recitals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Viola Saxophone

For beginning voice students, I focus on opening and relaxing the throat by way of diaphragm support and healthy, strong breathing. These are the fundamentals of good singing, regardless of the style.We work on these techiniques with both vocal exercises and repertoire.From there, I focus on the student's quality of tone and helping them find their "natural voice." The best singers use their authentic sound, and are not a second-rate imitation of someone else. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Clarinet Bass Guitar Synthesizer French Horn

The most effective teachers that I have had were teachers who recognized these important factors in the student-teacher relationship- that the best education experiences occur when both the student and the teacher embark on a positively-reinforced exploration together as opposed to the teacher solely dictating negatively to the student. It's with this spirit that I intend to conduct every lesson that I teach, because it is also through making the relationship one of mutual exploration and nurturing that I will give my past experiences of joy to my students. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Music Keyboard

I have been in numerous music videos with the group and have led recording sessions. A few videos I have worked on ("This Is Me" and "From Now On") have even gained several million views! I have had the honor to star in the film "First String" as Rebecca Carlisle, and I am reprising my role in the sequel. I have had so many wondrous opportunities to share my craft with others, and I am enthusiastic about sharing even more through teaching and performing. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I prefer to start young beginners with the Suzuki method. I feel it's the best method for not only instilling the correct posture and tone production, but also a great method for instilling a passion for the instrument. Students learn songs by rote in a lesson, and then practice at home along with a recording in order to train the ear. Once students have a good foundation, I add in I Can Read Music and use it as a supplement to continued Suzuki practice to begin developing music reading skills. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola Music Keyboard

Suzuki instructional books and supplemented by traditional methodology for reading the various clefs: treble, alto, tenor, and bass. In addition, historical and theoretical subjects are introduced appropriately to keep the student engaged no matter their current abilities. We also have at least two public performances a year at a venue which has a high quality grand piano so the students can get used to the notion that every piano will be different and performing scales before playing their chosen repertoire will help them immensely. Read More