Violin Lessons in Wyncote, PA

Instruments: Violin Viola

My teaching philosophy follows the belief that musical understanding and maturity are easier to discuss once the student is able to execute a variety of technical details. I often say that technique is teaching a student how to make ten shades of blue, but musicality is deciding which shade of blue to use. Musicality can be more subjective than technique, although there are certain guidelines for each period (Baroque, Classical, Romantic, etc.). Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

I am a strings teacher, teaching privately for 10 years and in public schools for 7. I graduated from Elizabethtown College with a Bachelors of Music in Music Education, with a concentration in violin. I am currently pursuing my Masters in Orchestral Conducting at Messiah College. Strings students can expect to improve week to week in their technique. I teach students strong foundational techniques in order to develop their abilities. I use a mixture of both technical exercises and repertoire to help any student to play with freedom, confidence, and expression. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Viola

For the beginning student, I typically suggest a collection of specific studies from an array of sources, some designed simply for technique and others for the development of musical understanding. Naturally, these depend on the individual and their needs. I am most dedicated to facilitating the needs of each individual student and providing them the ability to express their musical ideas clearly and easily. For more advanced students, I will focus on honing technical proficiency and challenging them with new repertoire, preparing them for new musical opportunities, such as youth orchestras, chamber music, recitals, and competitions to further their growth. Read More

Instruments: Piano Voice Violin Viola Keyboard

Music is deeply personal; one must get to know each student's own personality, interests, and connections to music. Early on (both in the teaching relationship and in each lesson) one must assess where the student is, as to technical and musical growth, and with the music at hand. Then one finds, models, explains and encourages the next steps the student can achieve. Clear guidance and dialogue about what will happen outside the studio (listening, practice, rehearsal, performance) helps turn the weekly cycle of lessons into an upward spiral of progress, achievement, and reward. Read More

Instruments: Violin Cello Viola

I began teaching private lessons when I was a junior in high school and have been teaching since then. My philosophy is that any one can play an instrument with the proper instruction and patience. I encourage my students to practice regularly and strive to achieve their goals, but most importantly my goal is to help them to feel more confident and enjoy music, no matter what stage they are at in their musicianship. Read More

Instruments: Piano Violin Electric Violin

CAPA provided Alissa with the opportunity to play and perform with the All-City Philadelphia Orchestra, Curtis Institute of Music, Temple Orchestra, as well as performing with the conductor of the Philadelphia Orchestra, Yannick Nézet-séguin. Alissa continued on to Rowan College after high school, continuing to teach lessons from home. In addition to consistent practice, Alissa has tutored many younger students for piano and violin within her schools, and has taught lessons to children of friends and family. Read More