Violin Lessons in Occoquan, VA

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: Violin

My teaching experience began while attending graduate school 30 years ago. I have been teaching consistently in my home studio and with the Liya Foundation Summer Music Camp for the past 6 years. At the Liya Summer Camp, I conduct private lessons, sectionals, and assist with orchestra rehearsals. I am a patient, fun loving violin instructor who believes in stretching a student's growth. I emphasize disciplined, consistent practice to improve skills but do not expect perfection. In my opinion, no one ever completely masters the violin. Read More

Instruments: Violin Fiddle

I teach traditional Appalachian/Old Time and Irish fiddle in a fun, learn-by-ear style that's pretty accessible to anyone beginning or more advanced. As a lifetime fiddler player and music historian, I provide a cultural and and musicological background to a wide array of folk traditions in the U.S. and throughout the world. I have a flexible approach to teaching, and can work with classical notation and sheet music, in addition to playing by ear and improvising. Read More

Instruments: Violin

Unless requested otherwise, I primarily work with the Suzuki Method. For those unfamiliar, this is a methodology formulated on the belief that all children are capable of learning the violin at any age and skill level. This method works with play learning, ear training, and instilling a musicality from a young age. I augment these Suzuki books with other exercises, depending on the skill level of the student. This includes Galamian scales and other etudes for them to build strong foundations. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I think the violin is very special. It’s such a difficult instrument that requires lots of commitment and dedication. I would have never reached my level now if it weren’t for the teachers who were firm and persistent with me. I translate this back to my own teaching methods so I am a firm teacher but at the same time I do my best to make lessons engaging and that my students take pride in their improvements. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Violin Cello Clarinet Drums Bass Guitar Synthesizer Ukulele Mandolin Recorder Lute Double Bass Mallet Percussion Conga Latin Percussion

As I have taught for many years, I feel encouraged and motivated when I can pass along my love for music. Nothing is more inspiring to me than to see someone's face light up when they pick up their instrument and learn. I set tailored goals for my students to reach every week, so that they have specific targets to reach. Positive reinforcement is the key to keeping a motivated student, and I encourage them in anyway possible making myself available to them throughout the week even after the lesson is over.  Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

I have taught privately for over five years. Starting in college, I taught several students on violin before making piano my primary instrument. Since graduating from college, I have continued with my private studio in additional to expanding my work with local public schools and youth choirs. I have experience coaching students for college auditions and solo ensemble at the local and state level. I have worked with adults, high schools and young kids in ages ranging from six to fifteen years of age. Read More