Violin Lessons in Sharon Hill, PA

Instruments: Piano Violin

I try to focus the lessons on the individual student. I use faber books as my main method, but also incorporate a lot of sheet music for my students' different repertoires. I have taught many classes on music fundamentals and theory.  I am also very knowledgeable about Alexander technique - a technique used to help those who suffer from performance anxiety. I am also well versed in music therapy and have used it to help people with mental disorders and physical pain achieve some level of relief. 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: Guitar Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Electric Violin Electric Guitar Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

You can not use a "one size fits all" kind of approach when teaching an instrument. It is important to me that the student is involved in creating their musical journey, which means each lesson I teach and the way that I teach it will be different. I understand that not everyone learns the same way, and what may work for one student may not work for another. One of the things that has made me a better teacher is that I learn from my students. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

In highschool I worked with a music mentoring program.  I would travel to local elementary schools and teach children from 2nd to 4th grade violin in small groups.  This cultivated my love of teaching.  Though in college I never had the opportunity to teach privately due to my busy schedule, during breaks I would often give masterclass style lessons to students of my former teacher Michael Bandimere when they were preparing for performances or auditions. 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

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