Violin Lessons in Philadelphia, PA

Instruments: Violin Viola

Each student is unique and I cater my teaching style to the specific needs of the student.  The key is teaching students how to identify problems for themselves and how to practice to fix them.  In addition I believe that learning music should be fun! This is the reason that I got into music and continue it to this day.   Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola Fiddle Keyboard

My teaching experience dates back to my college days, as I began teaching private lessons part time 18 years ago, and have been consistently teaching students in my home studio for the last 5 years. Encouraging regular practice on a consistent schedule is one of the key points I like to emphasize for younger students, as it tends to help the student progress and gain a passion for the instrument. I've also found that a combination of classical and modern music can go a long way in helping students enjoy the piano and motivate them to practice and continue to learn. Read More

Instruments: Violin

For more advanced students, who have an idea of what they want from their lessons, I will typically play less than with beginner students and focus on listening to the skills and techniques they have already developed. This allows us to have more in depth discussions about the finer details of their playing such as expressivity, technicality and really playing music as opposed to simply playing notes on a page. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I initially focus on their setup and how to hold the instrument properly. Having this solid foundation helps in the future to avoid injuries and negative habits. After that, I use the Essential Elements books and Suzuki method books as a guideline with supplemental materials. At this point I would also begin introducing solo repertoire appropriate for a first recital performance. For adults, I try to find out what the student is interested in, and guide my teaching according to their level of interest, keeping lessons engaging and fun. Many times that includes playing fiddle tunes, which is very exciting to me too, since I have been involved in Irish culture since I was young. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

For beginning students, I generally start with Suzuki Method, Sassmannshaus, and my own methods which I have created over the years. I emphasize the importance of ear training, becuase that is what allows us to know if we are playing correctly. For intermediate and advanced students, we work very heavily on warm ups, scales, etudes, and repertoire. Repertoire is a personal thing, and many of my adult students already have an idea of what they would like to play. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My aspirations as a violin instructor are to enable students to identify, understand, and assess challenges they contend to search for possible solutions. I am a proponent of self-directed learning, and intentionally create situations in class that allow the students to learn through the unconventional approach. I also encourage students to come up with their own exercises and possible solutions for any challenge they encounter. In order to measure their learning, I require students to demonstrate the process of searching for possible solutions in class. Read More