About
VIOLIN LESSONS
Experienced violin instructor of over 40 years (CA, CT, MD)
Suzuki and Traditional Methods
All ages welcome, virtual or in person
Private lessons
Ensemble group lessons
Coaching/tutoring services for auditions, applications
Parenting support workshops, violin purchase consultations
Beginning Violin Theory and Music Literacy
Early childhood music games
I enjoy the collaborative learning process and especially enjoy cheering on milestones of each student. My approach is individually customized to support each student as they progress through their goals in a holistic and dynamic way. It is gratifying to plant the love of music, and to encourage its growth and development through personal growth, commitment and effort.
Highlights
Photos and videos
Reviews
Karen R.
Ben H.
Cathy S.
Sorchea O.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Contact, submit student info sheet, interview.
Schedule trial lesson, start at foundation level for beginner students, review foundations for experienced players, transition to developmentally appropriate lesson material as the student progresses
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Background/instructors/memberships: D. Christmas, M. Ramirez, M. Tsetilin, I. Malkin. John Kendall Suzuki Teaching certification. Attendance/participation in ongoing teacher training workshops.
Held faculty positions at: Carlsbad Suzuki Strings/CA, UCSD Academy of Strings/CA, Neighborhood Music School/New Haven/CT, Levine School of Music/DC,
Private studio teaching in CA, CT, DC, MD
My students participate in youth and community orchestras, chamber groups, Suzuki institutes, music camps, institutes, state and county and state festivals, masterclasses, workshops, string exams and competitions. Member of ASTA, SAGWA, Suzuki Association of America.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
FEES:
Private lesson rates: $125/hr, 15% sibling discount or multiple lesson discount
Ensemble/chamber coaching: $100/hr
Practice session by associate: $50/hr
Violin purchase/shopping: $50/hr
Piano accompanists/collaborative piano fees: responsibility of each student, prices vary
Application fees, activity fees and tuition related to extracurriculars outside of the studio: responsibility of the student.
How did you get started teaching?
I studied Suzuki violin as a child, was recruited to student teach at an early age, continued classical violin studies with teachers after my Suzuki training, taught through high school, college, graduate school, parenthood. Obtained my Suzuki teaching certification, studied coursework in human development and teaching in graduate school. My teachers were inspirational, many of them were wonderful mentors. I believe we are all life long learners. I love the teaching and learning process.
What types of students have you worked with?
People of all ages, abilities, walks of life and creeds and color.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Looking forward to when the pandemic is over.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure you are ready to commit to regular home practice as practicing is where the real work and magic happens. Be sure parental expectations of young students are realistic.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Have a sense of your goals and objectives, how much time and emotional bandwidth you have to overcome learning curves.