Gretchen’s Music
About
String Instruction - Tailored to your needs and presented at your pace.
I teach students from age 5 through adult. I am particularly fond of helping adult students. I believe that it is never too late to start making music a part of your life. Yes, you can start an instrument at any age.
My teaching style is to be supportive, patient and kind in guiding the student toward success. Everyone can learn an instrument and there is always a different way for me to explain a difficult concept. Lessons are usually based on Suzuki materials, but very customized based on the student. As soon as they have the skill students can start to help pick music that they are interested in as a supplement.
I am a professional free-lancer and symphony sub with a BA in music, I have been teaching music for 15+ years. I am also a high school music coach, middle school music aide and coach, and have 25 years of orchestral experience.
I enjoy the look on a student's face when they play or do something that they didn't think was possible. Helping a student learn the next more advanced skill is very rewarding.
Highlights
Payment methods
Details
Do you own a violin?
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Instrument interested in
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
If they already have experience we will talk a bit and then play so that I can understand their level. It also helps me to understand what skills we need to start working on in the future.
If they are new we will just start will basics. First we need a common language to talk about the instrument and then we will start the path toward playing. The length of the lesson determines how far we get the first lesson. We will also talk a bit about why they are playing so we can cycle in interesting music as soon as possible.
All students will leave with a plan for the week and how to move forward before the next lesson.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have taught privately since 2006. This is my primary job. I also coach the strings at two high schools. I have passed a background check and fingerprinting for working in the schools. I have a BS in music and computer science from Cal State East Bay.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Lesson pricing is the following:
30 minutes - $45
45 minutes - $55
60 minutes - $75
30 minute lessons are reserved for the youngest players. This is generally due to attention span, not because there isn't more to learn. 45 minutes is generally for middle school and above, and 2+ years of experience. 60 minutes are for advanced players that practice regularly and for adults.
How did you get started teaching?
Most of my career has involved teaching. I really enjoy it. I worked in high tech for many years. In 2006 I finally had life settled in a way that I could start music as my career, not my recreation. I have a double major in music and computer science.
What types of students have you worked with?
My student base has been varied. At one point I was teaching at a music school where my entire day was children 5-7 years. When I first started teaching in my own studio the bulk of my students were adults at all levels. Right now my studio includes both of those ages, but many middles school through college students. Any age is the right age for music.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
When COVID-19 closed the schools and I moved to Skype lessons I had one senior in high school that was so anxious about video that it just wasn't possible. The first lesson we just talked with her off screen. For the first month we shortened lessons and I encouraged her patiently. Last week she graduated from high school and was on screen for her full longer lesson time. It was just like any other lesson. I was so proud of her and what she had overcome.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find someone that cares about you and why you are learning an instrument.
Make sure they have the patience to help you learn, especially when you are having trouble with a concept.What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
It takes a number of months for a string instrument to sounds good and feel comfortable. Be aware that this is going to take some time, but you can do it.
It takes close to daily time to keep the path of learning moving forward. Everyone learns at a different rate.