Violin Lessons in Milwaukee, WI

Instruments: Violin Viola Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

What is your dream piece to perform and why?
Marque-son's Chicken by Frank Zappa--a solo which features the most Slonimsky-esque styles of solo playing of any of Zappa's compositions, use of truly underwater-sounding modulation devices, and overt dissonance in Varese-like rhythmic statements.

If you play more than one instrument, how did you decide to start playing the second? (Or 3rd, 4th, 5th, etc)!
Growing up, I would have many instruments around the house, some of which I played seriously, and others which were more for fun, I would always be able sit and make sounds with something, even if it wasn't entirely coherent. Later on, however, as I started to take lessons from Larry Gray (a man who is proficient on cello, upright bass, guitar, keys and flute) I came to realize that, with a keen enough ear, a person can learn to play almost anything.

If you have a Music Degree, what is it in (Performance, Education, Musicology, Theory, Composition, etc) and why did you choose that degree?
At UIUC, I chose to pursue a performing degree, as this allowed me to devote the most time to perfecting technique on the violin and viola. Experiencing performing at all levels across two string instruments has given me a wide and complete picture of good string playing, and the most effective ways to help improve sound for a student at any level. I am here to help students develop confidence and expression in music, using my own techniques and those passed on to me by my teachers.

When will I start to see results?
With the right instruction, anyone can make a good sound on an instrument, at least for an instant. What regular practice serves to do is improve dexterity, precision, and endurance in one's playing, which are all prerequisites to developing musicality, and eventual viability as a musician.

Did you have a teacher that inspired you to go into music? How did they inspire you?
Rudolf Haken was an enormous inspiration to me as an instructor, when I studied at UIUC. His kindness and supportive guidance were what helped me develop as a violist and musician in general, and I have always been inspired by his creativity and willingness to think (and compose!) outside the box.

What musical accomplishments are you most proud of?
The height of my achievements is the number of esteemed venues, events, and artists with whom I have had the privilege to share my musical abilities.

What do you think is the hardest thing to master on your instrument?
Students learning string instruments face two challenges in having a good sound: Tone, and intonation. Any bowed, fretless instrument posses wild, unbounded abilities in making varied sounds, due to the amazing variety of sounds a musician can make with a bow and a fretless fingerboard. This superpower of string instruments is also the biggest stumbling block for new students. Careful, attentive practice is what can ultimately develops a good musical ear and ability to make a good sound, but it can still take a number of years to fully develop.

How do I know if my child is ready to start lessons?
In my experience, any child who has a working instrument and interest in music is ready to start lessons. I only teach online lessons as young as age 6, but parents with a child who sings frequently or shows ability to remember melodies can seek in-person lessons as early as age three.

What advice do you have about practicing effectively?
Practicing slowly and attentively will always yield the best results. The ears are the musician's greatest tool in creating a good sound, so they must be used effectively! Beyond ensuring effective practice, the other important practice tip is to do it often. Ten minutes every day is more effective than seventy minutes, once a week.

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