Violin Lessons in Donora, PA

Instruments: Violin

I take aspects of different methods and combine them with my own to create a opportunity for the student to explore and experiment with their music, with out developing bad habits. I like to use the Suzuki books as a basis solely for musical progression, but technical set up is catered to differently for each student. The violin is not a naturally held instrument, and not everyone's body is the same, therefore I work with each student individually to find the right set up for their body. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Double Bass

I have a "less talk, more play" approach to music. People learn instruments because they want to play music, and that is always the focus in my lessons. While some instructors incessantly talk about theory, history, and other music concepts, I prefer to keep the talking to a minimum and have my students play their instrument as much as possible. I also tend to move at a quick pace, but I always adapt my pacing to meet the needs of the student. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I do a lot of demonstrations and use analogies from the realm of physics to describe the violin technique. I do focus on Musicality and musical phrasing. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

My favorite quote is: "All students have gifts, they just open their presents have different times."  I work with students where they are and at their pace.  I start beginners with Essential Elements 2000 for Strings.  As students progress I use Samuel Applebaum method books, traditional etudes like Wolfhardt and Sevick, Suzuki books and solo pieces as appropriate.  I teach Traditional Classical string instruction.  I will work to find pieces that students find interesting and keep my instruction engaging and fun for all of my students of all ages. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For younger students (less than 5), I think Suzuki method would probably work best! We would focus on small exercises to establish good posture and sound while learning mainly through imitation and listening. When a student is able, I do encourage some theory as to read music fluently and gain understanding of basic musical concepts. At this age, I also encourage weekly technical exercises (scales, etudes) to improve ability and fluidity of playing. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Cello Viola

I have been teaching private lessons for the last 6 years and began teaching in the public school system in spring of 2022. This fall, I will be a long-term substitute orchestra teacher for North Allegheny School District. My education at Duquesne was entirely focused on music education. I took various courses in instrument methodology for brass, woodwind, and string instruments, and studied leading pedagogy practices from distinguished educators. I studied cello with PSO musician Adam Liu, and performed challenging works for solo cello in my studio as well as orchestral works with the full Duquesne Symphony Orchestra. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I have the teaching experience as of CMU, Duquesne University, and El Sistema en Venezuela. Have the training , and the privilege of the best schools in The USA, and Europe. Have achieved what not too many violists have, International prizes, world premieres and solos in the best venues like Carnegie Hall, Kennedy Center, and Heinz Hall. Very patient, and caring with students. My students are now in the best orchestras, and chambee groups . Read More