Viola Lessons in West Friendship, MD

Instruments: Violin Viola

My belief is that performed music should be fun for the performer as well as the audience. I will always give my best effort when I teach but students are also required to put in effort if they want to learn and become passionate about music. I encourage my students to have regular practice routines but make sure they are not overwhelmed. When I teach I also like to ask my students questions (such as how much bow do you need for this note? or what is the best approach to make this phrase more expressive with your left-hand?) so that students can learn to come up with solutions by themselves and can feel comfortable practicing without my always being there to guide them. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

For beginnig students who are children I typically start with a lesson book.As soon as they are comfortable on their instruments, I introduce the pieces for their first performance. For older students Ifollow their interests tohave them play the songs that they enjoy. I also specialize in working with young children and on Suzuki Method teaching for piano, violin, viola and cello. 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 Recorder

For my youngest students, age 7 and under, I begin with Adventures in Violinland, a wonderful method written by Shirley Givens, instructor at Peabody Preperatory. This teaches note reading with a solfegg system. It has a strong emphasis on technique. For beginners ages 8 and up, I use either Essential Elements or Sound Innovations, usually matching it with whatever the school district uses that the student lives in. As the students progress, I use the Suzuki repertoire as well as various scale and technique books. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

My main goal is to create a positive, productive and enjoyable learning experience for my students. In my lessons, I am helping my students to learn not only the particular technique or element but some aspects of music history as well as composers' background and important facts about musical styles. Each semester I have a recital for my students where they can share their progress and excitement about the lessons and music. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle Music

My experience spans a rich tapestry of teaching roles that have allowed me to engage with students across various age groups and backgrounds. I've conducted masterclasses at esteemed institutions like the University of Northern Iowa and Towson University, instilling my passion for the violin and music education in young minds. My dedication to chamber music extends beyond performance, as I take on the role of Chamber Strings Coordinator and Coach at the Leon Fleisher Academy, overseeing curriculum design, repertoire selection, and fostering musical growth in chamber settings. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Music Keyboard

My approach to teaching is to come in with a detailed plan I'm ready to throw out the window. Music should be fun! Sometimes we have to work hard to make sure it is fun for the long run, but work doesn't need to be unenjoyable. For the kids and kids at heart, I incorporate movement games and Orff instruments. Those that consider themselves to be adults will have a bit more sedate fun and games. Read More