Violin Lessons in San Juan Capistrano, CA

Instruments: Voice Violin Viola Ukulele Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

I've been teaching private Suzuki method violin lessons as well as music theory since I was a teenager. More recently I've coached musical theater singers and youth pop and rock bands. I worked with teenagers in group and individual coaching as a TA for the University of the Arts Pre-College Musical Theater Program. I taught group and individual vocal lessons and was a band leader with Beyond Rock summer camp on Long Island, NY. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

I use an organized step by step method as a general rule, depending on the students age and ability, seeking to have each student master the fundamentals of rhythm, note reading, technique and expression in a logical easy to understand way. I require practice at least 4 days a week to ensure progress. For preschool age children, I use the Wunderkeys method. I seek to minimize frustration, encourage students to e-mail with questions, use games as a learning tool and assign pieces they like and pieces that are standard repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin

Although I began my musical career in the Suzuki method, I intentionally balance the ear-training approach of that method with music theory to create well-rounded musicians. My students will learn how to sight read music, improvize their own melodies, perform in an ensemble (chamber and/or orchestral) and master the art of performance with a solid foundation in music theory. I generally start off with Suzuki repertoire for beginning students, but supplement that with scales, positions exercises, dexterity exercises, and sight-reading material. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Cello Viola

I have extensive experience as a teacher as well as a performer. I bring these two accomplishments together to provide a well rounded experience for my students.  In High School, I performed with the Kansas City Youth Symphony for 8 years, the Kansas City Cello Choir for eight years, the Missouri All-State for three years, and various other honor orchestras throughout her career. While still attending Drake University, I played in the Drake Symphony Orchestra, the Des Moines Symphony and the Encore String Trio. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

Most students were sometimes getting good but sometimes they have a hard time playing with difficult notes that I teach. Some students were getting good on the beginning methods and understanding what the music book is going to read and learn about. I encourage the students to practice the beginning methods seriously for about 30 minutes. If the student is getting a little hard, she can take a break for 10 minutes and go back to the homework. Read More

Instruments: Violin

My teaching style is more relaxed and less strict than other teachers, especially for beginner students, though I do emphasize the importance of consistent practice and listening. I believe that not only practicing, but also listening to what you are practicing, especially, pieces is very important for the development of the musical ear. When teaching, I like to have the student practice and play many examples from the book that is being used, especially if they are short examples. Read More