Violin Lessons in Kent, WA

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola Mandolin Recorder Electric Violin Fiddle

My studio is in Olympia, and I travel to students' homes in the Seattle area including Bainbridge Island and Bremerton. I am a member of the Musicians' Association of Seattle and the American String Teachers' Association. Music has played a vital, formative role in my life for as long as I can remember. My parents are both excellent musicians. I started piano lessons at the age of 5 and began studying violin when I was nine. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Harmonica Ukulele Recorder Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

My motto is my students create their own lesson. I formulate lesson plans off of the styles of music you are most interested in. If my student has a more "just for fun" attitude, the lesson will inevitably be a more light hearted feel. If the student would like to focus on more technicalities, that as well is a different approach. However, I do have a more structured plan for younger students. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I am not Suzuki certified but I utilize the early Suzuki violin books for repertoire; that being said, I always take the requests of students into account meaning it is important to me that students are learning music they are excited about learning. For beginners who are new to music as a whole, I employ volumes 1 and 2 of "I Can Read Music" to get students learning both pitch and rhythm in easy, digestible, sections. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

For younger students who are beginning, I usually start with Hal Leonard's Essential Elements. This book has great materials for setting up the violin and bow hold, reading notes, rhythm and other musical markings, and introducing basic music theory such as time and key signatures. Also, this book incorporates the foundation of all musical learning, scales and arpeggios, into fun exercises that are enjoyable for every student.For older students who have more experience, I have a range of etudes from Sevcik to Kreutzer that can futher develop and solidify a good foundation of technique.For musical training, I use solo repertoire from Suzuki and other sources that are appropriate for each student's level so that he/she can be healthily challenged musically and technically while feeling accomplished during performances. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I also work as a vocal performer and have sung classically in many choral ensembles and churches. I worked at the University of South Carolina String Project and have taught elementary and middle school orchestra. My greatest passion remains sharing my love of violin with private students who are excited to learn - many of my students have made all state orchestra, gained acceptance into youth orchestras, and won music scholarships for college. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I enjoy teaching so much because I am able to watch each student develop a passion for music, work towards rewarding careers, and grow a great sense of curiosity. Watching students work through challenges and become excited about music is very rewarding. Students in my studio are encouraged to take on new challenges, but also to learn at their own pace. Each student works with me individually to set goals at each lesson. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

Its so easy to put too much pressure on students and cause the classic burn out that so many musicians have experienced at some point or another. So Im very conscious of how my students are feeling and noticing the difference between the need for instructive support and the need for encouragement. I like to end every lesson with three questions. What did you learn today? What can you improve on this week? Read More