Viola Lessons in Stony Brook, NY

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Viola

I don't have a singular method because every student is different. At the beginning of my lessons with a new student we will begin getting to know each other. Then we try different things. Some students are naturals at imitating what they hear, so we play to those strengths. Other students are more comfortable with structure and math, so we take that route instead. What I find most important is being flexible. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

Hello! I am a multi-talented music teaching professional proficient in Violin/Viola/Piano. I completed my Bachelor and Masters of Music degree in Violin Performance from the Juilliard School and began my teaching career coaching pre-college students in various strings ensemble classes as a Teaching Assistant. Few distinguished highlights in my early career included debuting with the New Haven Symphony Orchestra at Woolsey Hall, as the winner of the 1999 Young Artist competition, performing with the Yale Philharmonic as a guest soloist, in part of the Young Rising Concert Artist Series. 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: Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle Acoustic Guitar

I began teaching at the age of 17 years old and started a strings program with the founder of Akoustikos. I began teaching the Suzuki method and I love to hold group lessons as it encourages and fosters healthy growth. Since then, I have taught all over Pennsylvania and extensively studied different teaching methods to build a flexible program that is best for the student! I also love to transcribe music that student's love because it has many benefits including fun! Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginners who are children, I start with the essential Suzuki method which includes a focus on musical listening imitation, parental involvement (at very young ages) and creating an effortless technique. The Suzuki books are great in that they provide a great foundation and an extremely logical progression for taking students from complete beginners to an advanced level. For advanced students, we can branch out into a wide variety of classical concertos or other repertoire (this happens around Suzuki book 6) I love to teach adults, and I try to structure my teaching in accordance with adult students' goals and interests. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Piano Voice

My teaching experience began 6 years ago when I was a high school senior. I began teaching students in my local orchestras, as well as adults wanting to start out. When I moved back to Long Island after graduation, I began teaching the same age levels. In New York, students are often encouraged to participate in NYSSMA Festivals, thus I have gained extensive experience preparing students for violin and viola solos. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I will vary my methods based on the individual student. For students between 3 and 7, I will use the Suzuki method, which in my experience is best for students of that age. For beginners after that, I will use method books and repertoire that not only addresses the students technical and musical development at that point in time, but is also fun and enjoyable to play. I encourage students to play in their school or community orchestra and will assist and encourage students to play in chamber ensembles. Read More