About
Born in 1942, Neal Donner began his violin studies in 1950 with William Schroeder in Washington, DC. His education includes a Ph.D. in East Asian Philosophy and Religion (University of British Columbia, Canada, 1976).
His young son’s Suzuki violin studies inspired him to embark on a career as a violin teacher. Turning avocation into vocation, he studied Suzuki pedagogy with Elizabeth Mills, Alice Joy Lewis, Margery Aber, Jackie Corina, Almita Vamos, John Kendall, James Maurer, Barbara Barber, Idell Low, and in Matsumoto, with Shinichi Suzuki. In 1982 he began to teach Suzuki violin professionally and now teaches students at beginning and intermediate levels, through book 10.
In 1988, following three years on the Board of Directors of the Suzuki Music Association of California, Los Angeles Branch (SMAC-LA), he became president of the Board and was re-elected the following year. Between 2003 and 2010 he again served as director, president, and then treasurer.
I love my students!
Highlights
Specialties
Do you own a violin?
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Instrument interested in
Reviews
Zach E.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Let them show me what they can do, if they are adults.
With a total beginner, adult or child, I show how to hold the instrument, and how to play some simple rhythms without using any left-hand fingers.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Violin study since age eight, training in all units of Suzuki method (levels one through ten), thirty+ years teaching,
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
30- and 45-minute lessons, monthly tuition payable at the first lesson of the month; introductory meeting is gratis.
How did you get started teaching?
Peace Corps in Africa, middle school
What types of students have you worked with?
Mostly kids, but also about 10% adults at ll levels.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I performed with a student at a local block party.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find a teacher with whom you develop rapport.