About
I have trained classically under world-renowned teachers throughout the United States and Europe, and my passions have also brought me to jazz, pop, hip hop, and folk music, as well as improvisation. I would be delighted to help you learn a new tune, develop the basics of jazz improvisation, or help you prepare for your recital!
You can read more about my experience and teaching philosophy, as well as see more reviews, at www.zacharyhamiltonmusic.org/teaching.
I'm looking forward to hearing you play and making some goals. Let's dive in!
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to start off with an introductory lesson to get to know the student. We discuss the student's goals, where they stand currently, and what we would focus on to move them forward.
After that I try to see my students once a week. My teaching focuses on the science and art of practicing, and on truly understanding technique, with an emphasis on listening. Weekly assignments tend to include technical exercises, scales, and classical pieces of the student's choice. Basic improvisation is also an interest of mine and, I find, a valuable experience for my string students.
Students who have goals outside of classical music will have a different focus, though, spending more time on learning by listening, improvisation, and perhaps transcribing. It all depends on the student!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor of Music degree in Violin Performance from the University of Puget Sound. After finishing college I moved to Europe to study with several teachers on violin and viola, including Barbara Gorzynska, Matthias Maurer, and Asdis Valdimarsdottir, among others. To work with these teachers I studied at various conservatories, including Prayner & Vienna Konservatorium and the Royal Conservatoire of the Hague.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I currently charge $65/hour for online lessons, and $80/hour for in-person lessons. Shorter lessons are rated accordingly.
How did you get started teaching?
I have been teaching since I was in high school, but my studio has expanded significantly during the Covid pandemic!
What types of students have you worked with?
all kinds! Students as young as five and students in their fifties! I love setting up new students, as well as preparing advanced students for competitions and auditions.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have recently been teaching a student who wanted to start learning violin to play Disney songs to his young children. He was very motivated, and established a strong foundation on the instrument quickly - after just a few months he was playing music from Disney movies!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for someone who knows how to play their instrument and has performance experience. Look for someone whom you personally connect with. Look for someone whose teaching excites you!