Violin Lessons in Suffield, CT

Instruments: Voice Violin Viola Electric Violin Fiddle

Through my studio, I have taught voice, beginner violin and viola, music ensembles, music management, production, music publishing and audio engineering. I have also worked as a live sound technician for several CT venues. I currently perform in the ensemble, Ulterior Motif in the styles of neoclassical, gypsy jazz, contemporary and world music. My compositions have been published with the Discovery Channel, HBO, Hulu, Netflix, in independent films, and in a variety of television marketing campaigns throughout the United Kingdom. Read More

Instruments: Violin

For younger beginning students, I either start with Strictly Strings or Suzuki, depending on how much prior musical experience the student has. In either case, I ensure that the student has a clear understanding of the violin and what is involved right from the beginning, and place a heavy emphasis on aural learning and ear training so they have a good foundation for their own practice at home and furthering their aural skills. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Cello Viola Trumpet Trombone Saxophone Flute Clarinet Drums French Horn Piccolo Oboe Bassoon English Horn

I normally use the Standard of Excellence method books for most of my students; however, I am open minded to adjusting to each individual student's musical needs, whether it be Jazz, Classical, or whatever style music the student is focusing on. For Drummers, I prefer the Haskell Harr Method, or the Buddy Rich Method Book, as well as the Breeze Easy Method Book. For piano instruction, I prefer the Faber Piano Method Books, as they are tailored to the students' individual needs. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching method is similar to the Suzuki Pedagogy in essence, however I have expanded much upon my early Suzuki Pedagogy training. I believe a skilled educator utilizes many avenues of knowledge to create a product individualized for each student, the years have taught me this. I also believe that it is vital for an excellent educator to understand that learning is a two way street. I pay attention to my students, I Iisten to them. Read More

Instruments: Guitar Violin Viola Banjo Ukulele

 Stephen is a graduate of Columbia University. A composer of more than fifty pieces, his music has been performed by both chamber groups and orchestras in the US and abroad. The most notable performers of his compositions include the Gregg Smith Singers, Stitching Combinatie van Utrechtse Muziekbelangen, New Calliope Singers, Group for Contemporary Music, and the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble. Stephen continues to work as a freelance guitarist and conductor, performing in various national venues with the Gregg Smith Singers, the Group for Contemporary Music, the New Jersey Percussion Ensemble, and the Composers Ensemble. Read More

Instruments: Violin Electric Violin Fiddle

Having a library of methods at my studio, I tailor my materials to the student. That is a creative process in itself, and always fun. I use classical European etudes and methods, contemporary sheet music, my own teaching etudes, childrens' books with CDs, fiddle books, etc. I have weekly lesson plans that cover warmups, focus points, working pieces, etudes, theory, review and performance preparation, and I keep a copy of each plan for my own review. Read More