Violin Lessons in Norwood, MN

Instruments: Violin

My first priority is creating a safe and fun environment where students can ask questions, and set goals that are realistic to their needs. We work together to find imagery and methods of practice that work for each individual student, and make weekly notes in a "lesson plan" notebook. By helping students identify and set their own goals and helping them identify their own understanding of the practice methods, I am encouraging critical thinking and practice discipline, which I find more efficient long-term than enforcing my own home-practice techniques and goals. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Organ Synthesizer Accordion Banjo Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Electric Violin Fiddle Double Bass French Horn Tuba Piccolo Mallet Percussion Orchestral Percussion Oboe Bassoon English Horn Conga Music Keyboard Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I began teaching private lessons in 1989. My focus is to understand what learning style my students have and base my teaching methods on their individual needs. In college I studied pedagogies (teaching methods) for band, orchestra and majored in vocal and classroom education. Since achieving my degree in teaching kindergarten through 12th grade education, I have worked in Preschool, Elementary, Middle School, and High School settings as well with the elderly. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

I love watching students succeed and learn the viola or violin! This is why we go by the student's pace and work with their ability. I require a notebook or binder for me to record what the student will need to work on for the following lesson, which helps them remember what they're assigned, as well as keeping them accountable about expectations. (And it helps me to remember!) Accomplishments will always be acknowledged, as well as constructive comments about what needs to be improved both technically and musically. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello

Guitar: For children, I prefer the FJH Young Beginner Guitar method, but for adults I would prefer Hal Leonard if the student is looking to learn both chords and melody using folk music. I could also teach guitar based on gospel and Christian praise music if the student prefers. I have taught students with an interest in rock music, but only to give them the basic foundation skills of chords and notes to build on with another teacher who has more of a rock music speciality. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

Ever since I met the great string teacher George Neikrug, I've been inspired to share all his knowledge about Dounis (the world's greatest string teacher). This information is the most exciting way to learn cello, violin, or viola. It's all about using your "native instincts" instead of conditioned reflexes. All the knowledge given me by this great teacher, plus the experience of playing concerts in Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center and around the world with the world's best artists is mygreat joy to pass on. Read More