Viola Lessons in Upton, NY

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Music

I began teaching private lessons as a sophomore in high school, where at first I had only one violin student. By the time I was a senior in high school I taught 10 students a week, all based on word of mouth recommendation through contacts at my former middle school. My aim for lessons is to present fun yet challenging material in a captivating and exploratory manner. Learning is a very individual experience, thus I employ different mediums and presentation techniques to introduce new concepts and revisit old ones. 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

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

As I said above, I have been teaching since I was in high school and began studying the Suzuki Method at the age of four. I believe that anyone is able to learn an instrument no matter their age, as long as they stick to a regular practice schedule, have patience, are passionate, and have goals in mind at all times. My goal is to make the learning experience unique for each student. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Drums Bass Guitar

As a multi-instrumentalists, I use a cross disciplinary approach even when a student is only learning one instrument. I do make use of method books for beginners, and the specific book depends upon the instrument, but I have my own methods and materials which I utilize in my lessons. Building a repertoire is encouraged, and I use the material to assist in instructing in theory and musical communication. My students are taught to be self-sufficient, by way of practice, study, and cultivating an "ear." Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Organ Accordion Ukulele Double Bass Keyboard

The teaching begins with identifying student's musical needs, goals and tastes. Students are taught a stimulating, thorough, and graduated course of recital solos, theory, technical studies, and a strandard instrument repertoire. For those wishing to pursue more of a classical approach to music, there are proven methods to accomplish that goal established by European Master Teacher and pedagogues. Also, I can teach the know-how of Jazz and Blues though gradual lessons that cover basic scales and chords up to melody and harmony development. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Piano Voice

I like having my students take advantage of any school/local recital opportunities that might arise as it provides great experience. My students get to choose some of their repertoire and lesson content as it makes it more enjoyable for them. I do require all students to play scales as they provide an essential foundation for all that they will play. I strive for my students to love playing violin and viola and for them to show off what they learn to their friends and family to spread the joy that music provides. Read More