About
I've had a passion for music as long as I can remember. I find it especially important to meet students where they are in their learning to give them the confidence in developing new skills. I received two degrees in music in 2014, and started teaching music lessons while I was still in school. One of my degrees is in music education and the other is in violin performance.
My husband and I tour as a duo by the name Oh Jeremiah (ohjeremiahmusic.com). We have been performing across the country together since 2012. I've got a deep passion for helping others with performance anxiety- something I struggled with for a few years. I also love to teach music theory- such a fun, tangiable way to gain confidence in music.
I am a certified Suzuki violin teacher. But I also incorporate other styles of music that my students are interested in. I believe a classical foundation is crucial to developing skills for any genre on the violin. I love being exposed to new music, and I want my students to feel that freedom while also understanding the benefits of classical music.
I would love to meet you for coffee or tea to see if we are a good fit!
I love watching my students fall in love with music- it's so rewarding. But it's not just about music; it's about discipline. Showing up to something regularly is hard to do, especially in a world of instant gratification. Learning a new instrument is hard work. But when my students make progress, it's so encouraging to see them realize it's because of the hard work they put in to it.
When you pocess a specialized skill, it gives you confidence. Playing the violin in grade school was crucial to my self-confidence in those tough years of being misunderstood as a kid. What a gift music lessons could be for kids for this reason.
The reason I use the Suzuki Method in my teaching is because its foundational belief is that every child can learn how to play the violin; I believe this whole-heartedly. You don't have to be born with a unique talent to succeed on the violin. I believe that talent is developed. And with the right teacher, positive home practice, and excellent relationship between the teacher, parent, and student, I believe this talent can be achieved.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I'd love to meet the potential student/parent before starting lessons. It's so important to me that we have good communication from the start. Don't buy a violin before we start if you are under about 13 years old. I need to measure you first. Call or email me and let's set up a time to meet and go over any questions you may have. This meeting is free. I will bring my studio polocies, and we will go over everything. Then the parent or student will sign it if they decide we are a good fit.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
-I have two degrees in music- music education and violin performance.
-I have performed in a band with my husband full-time for 8 years.
-I am a certified Suzuki violin teacher in volume 1 for violin.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $22 for a 30 minute lesson for beginners.
For intermediate students, I usually recommend a 45 minute lesson for $33.
For anyone needing a full hour, I charge $44.
How did you get started teaching?
I first started violin lessons when I was 5 years old. I fell in love with music in high school and then went on to study music in college. Violin was never easy for me, so I always had a heart for teaching because I know the challenges it can bring.
What types of students have you worked with?
I've worked with all ages (3-67) and all different types of students. The youngest I accept now is 5 years old.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I took a couple of my students to hear the UGA wind ensemble perform a kid's concert one Saturday monring. They performed Harry Potter music, and the conductor also inlcuded a little music instruction in betweeen pieces. She started talking about music dynamics, and one of my students looked at me with excitement and said, "Ms. Erin! That's like what you taught me this week!" She was so excited that she knew what they were talking about. It was precious and rewarding.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Look for someone that you feel comfortable with. Learning the violin is hard. You want someone that will encourage you. You want someone that will believe in you.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Am I willing to put in the time at home to practice my instrument?
What traits are important to me in a teacher?