About
I have a Bachelor's degree in violin performance. I have been teaching violin for 55 years, and I teach students from beginners to very advanced. I also enjoy teaching adult students. I teach online (only) using Zoom, so it doesn't matter where you live. I teach a standard curriculum of materials.
Highlights
Payment methods
Specialties
Do you own a violin?
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Instrument interested in
Photos and videos
Reviews
David
Aby T.
Mary P.
Pearl W.
Karen M.
Jamie S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
It depends on the student, as I teach students from beginners to advanced. With a beginner, I start them learning the proper way to hold the instrument and bow, and begin teaching them to read music. If the student has some experience on the instrument, I ask them to play something of their choice so I can assess their abilities, and let me know where to begin with them.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor's degree in Violin Performance from the University of Arizona in Tucson. I have also studied locally at the American Conservatory, Roosevelt University, and Northern Illinois University.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I have a fixed fee for lessons. The current price is in my quote.
How did you get started teaching?
I began to teach about four years after leaving college. I just wanted to help others learn the instrument I enjoy.
What types of students have you worked with?
Everyone from raw beginners to very advanced students, and children to adults.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
A ten year old student of mine just performed the J. S. Bach Concerto in A minor for violin, and did really well!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Pick a teacher who is interested in your progress, and not just in collecting your money. Pick a teacher that gives you a well rounded musical education in music theory, music history, and performance techniques as well as the basic education of playing the instrument well.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Well, first, are we talking about a child student, or an adult? The parent, or the adult student, should try to decide:
1. What is my goal in music?
2. Where does my interest lie in music? Classical, pops, folk?
3. Am I willing to practice (or help my child to) in order to meet my goal? Nothing in music comes free of work! The violin is a difficult instrument.
4. If you don't have an instrument, always rent for the first year. Never buy a small size instrument for a child, always rent. They will quickly grow out of it and need the next size up. Think "shoes"!