Violin Lessons in Valyermo, CA

Instruments: Violin

I'm currently accepting students of all ability levels, so my methods will be vastly different from beginner to advanced. For beginners, we start at the very beginning, learn how to hold the instrument and bow. Surprisingly, this first step can ruin or really hinder a person's technique down the road if it needs to be corrected. I focus a large chunk from the start on the bow arm as my students have impeccable bow technique. Read More

Instruments: Violin

For beginning students that have already been studying through a school program or are already working with instructional material, I am more than happy to jump in and tailor my instruction accordingly. For students that have no musical background whatsoever, I can supply materials as I see fit, given the disposition of the student. Also, I am happy to create custom lesson plans (etudes and short studies) to meet the specific needs of novice students in an effort to increase the enjoyment and efficiency of the learning process. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

I became the musician I am today because I was privileged to have many mentors who not only provided me with excellent technical training and numerous rare opportunities, but also with strong motivation and clear emotional guidance. Now I strive to be that kind of mentor and teacher for my students, engaging each one on a personal level, and providing the kind of opportunities for growth that my teachers provided for me. Read More

Instruments: Violin

I have been teaching private lessons for several years, as well as being on the faculty of a non-profit music school for 5 years after graduating from University. I've found that no matter what the setting, making a good connection with the student is crucial in building a strong teacher-student relationship. My lessons are a balance of building proper technique and enjoying fun music from my always-growing library. I tailor the lesson repertoire to what works best for my student so they can play the music they feel truly passionate about. Read More

Instruments: Piano Guitar Voice Violin Cello Viola Bass Guitar Double Bass Music Classical Guitar Acoustic Guitar

I have been teaching for the last 14 years for other music schools as well as my home studio. I love to help new students from the ages of  4-99  in learning the joys of playing an instrument or instruments that they are going to enjoy. Nothing truly satifies me more than to see a student advance in their insturment as each lessons passes by. Daily quality and not quantity practice is something I like to encourage the student to be able to advance much faster in mastering the instrument. Read More

Instruments: Violin Viola Fiddle

I have taught beginning violin using many different methods and books, including but not limited to the Suzuki Method, Essential Elements for Strings, and All For Strings books. However, I have found that the best way to engage students and maintain progress is not to keep too strictly to any one method, but to find what best suits each individual. I also incorporate a mix of transcribed fiddle tunes and/or popular music pieces to provide variety and keep the material fun! Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin

I stress the basics: scales, arpeggios and chords for piano and scales and double stops for violin. In regard to the piano, I have students practice each hand alone before combining them. Generally two pieces are assigned for students to work on and that work is continued for several weeks. I emphasize sight reading and rhythm. These are two aspects of music that are difficult for many. In regard to reading, the names and purposes of the various signs and symbols must be learned. Read More