About
My approach to teaching is that not all students learn the same, therefore, I find creative ways to make learning music fun and always a positive atmosphere.
I love that I bring the joy of music into others lives through both performing and teaching.
Specialties
Do you own a violin?
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Instrument interested in
Photos and videos
Reviews
Christina R.
Kim N.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Learning an instrument is like building a house. The very foundation is paramount. I begin with how to hold the instrument propertly and various techniques to ensure healthy beginnings to avoid injury in the future.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I began violin at age 9 through the public school system in the Detroit area. I studied classical violin privately and performed in several youth honor orchestras throughout Michigan. I've attended summer music camps such as Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp receiving scholarships. I was a student of Dr. Frank Spinosa's at Arizona State University as a violin performance major. I then received my B.A. in Elementart Education, teaching certificate through Ottawa University. I am currently a member of NAfMA, ASTA, American Federation of Musicians Local 586.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
TUITION:
30 minute weekly lesson = $25
60 minute weekly lesson = $50
PAYMENT OPTIONS: Quarterly, or monthly payments may be arranged. A late fee of $10 per week will be applied on the second lesson of the term. Cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, ApplePay, Venmo, and Paypal are accepted.
MISSED LESSONS: There is no charge for a missed lesson if cancelled within 24 hours of the scheduled lesson time. Make-up lessons are encouraged depending on availability. If the teacher needs to cancel a lesson and schedules do not permit a make-up lesson, a credit will be issued for the following payment schedule.
E-STUDIO: During the summer months, all students will receive Skype lessons. Also, the e-Studio option is a convenient way to have a make-up lesson. Once the video chat is established, the lesson time begins through ZOOM. Students are required to provide their own internet connection and respectable software to participate.
PARKING & WAITING: Parents planning to stay during the lesson, or students who drive please park in front of the house, or adjacent west of the house. Parents are welcome to wait in the living room or sit in on lessons.
LESSON MATERIAL: The students will study scales, etudes, repertoire, and music theory complementary to their level. Students should bring to each lesson; their instrument, a notebook, music, and a shoulder rest. For practice at home, students will need a metronome, tuner and a music stand.
YOUTH SYMPHONY & SCHOOL ORCHESTRA: Mrs. Caruso encourages all students to participate in group ensembles and/or orchestras as often as possible. Students involved in peer group activities show a greater increase of involvement and progress. Mrs. Caruso will assist in auditions, and orchestra materials in addition to lesson materials.
PRACTICING: Consistent practice is the hardest part of any level of playing an instrument. In order for lessons to be successful, students should practice all the lesson materials 5-6 days per week.