Violin Lessons in South Chicago Heights, IL

Instruments: Violin

I'm a violin teacher with over 10 years of experience. I currently teach Violin at two elementary Chicago Public Schools; and have taught lessons through the Chicago Park District, After School Matters and Illinois Arts Council programs. As a violinist I've worked with Andrea Bocelli, Marc Anthony, Jennifer Lopez and Donna Summers. For 10 years was first violin and soloist of the Puerto Rico Philharmonic Orchestra. Teaching has been a very important part of my career and practice, I love connecting with the students and celebrating their progress. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

For beginning students, I typically start with the Piano Adventures series. I learned from those books and they provide a well-rounded foundation of technique, lesson material, and performance material. That series also begins teaching basic music theory from the start. Piano Adventures is also great for visual learners- with pictures and diagrams to help understand the concepts in the lessons. My goal is to start students with strong technique and a practice plan. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Voice Violin Bass Guitar Harmonica

The first lesson is always partly an interview so I can understand exactly what the student's goals are. I typically establish good posture and breathing habits (or bowing and fingering, if violin) first and then move on to essential warm-up exercises. Those exercises then become their regular homework, to hopefully be practiced multiple times a week or if possible, every day. I remind the student of breathing and posture regularly - good habits are the goal! Read More

Instruments: Violin

Since everyone has a different way of seeing and understanding things, focusing on student's needs is my priority. Each lesson is tailored specifically for the student so that the information is well understood Beginner students are taught the principles behind the proper posture and correct handling of the instrument for better intonation. For intermediate students, basic musical theory lessons are added. Intermediate-advanced and advanced lessons contain listening skills as well musical thinking lectures.  Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Music

I love using the Suzuki method for skill building, but I also believe that students should be musically literate! I utilize supplemental books, such as "I Can Read Music," Essential Elements, and other sight-reading materials to encourage note-reading from the get-go. All of my students, including those who are 4 years old read notes. I emphasize etudes (studies), scales, warm-ups, physical stretches, and favorite songs of my students as part of a balanced repertoire. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My own: a combination of traditional, Suzuki and what appeals/worksfor the individual student Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Mandolin Electric Violin Fiddle

I'm a lifelong musician, having started on the violin when I was 4 years old, and I am very grateful where that privilege has taken me. Music is an integral part of my life, and I credit great teachers and perserverance with how far I've come. I've performed professionally on violin and guitar with numerous ensembles and orchestras. This includes shows at the renowned Great American Music Hall in San Francisco, CA and Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL. Read More