About
I was trained at one the best music institutions of Russia (Gnessins Musical Pedagogical Institute in Moscow, Gorky Conservatoire in Nizhny Novgorod). I have Master's degree (M.A. in Classical Music) approved in the USA. I used to play in several symphony and chamber orchestras in Russia participating in local and international concert trips. Currently, I am an artist of Highland Park Chamber Orchestra for many years. All my students are always invited to our concerts to enjoy the wonderful music and outstanding soloists. As a violin and chamber ensemble teacher I worked for two musical colleges in Russia. I offer lessons to students age 6 through adult of any professional level: from beginners to highly advanced students. For many years my students have regularly won or got high prizes in competitions and auditions (Illinois Grade School Music Association contests, The Granquist Music Competitions (Geneva, IL); Walgreen’s National Concerto Competitions, and National Youth Orchestra of the United States of America in Carnegie Hall), and have been awarded positions in some good orchestras. Lessons can be conducted in English or in Russian, and music books for intermediate and advanced students will be provided. I offer a comfortable environment of a studio-style lesson space, or in special cases, I can travel to the student's home. My students have at least two class concerts during a school year in a comfortable concert hall.
I love this job! I'm really excited when I see my student who hardly could hold a violin and move his fingers, becomes a professional who plays high-end virtuoso compositions, who win competitions, who enters to an amazing World of Music and lives there.
Details
Do you own a violin?
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Instrument interested in
Photos and videos
Reviews
Kelly D.
Anastacia B.
George
Nataliya C.
Elizabeth
Elena F.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Very individual: I always try to find a very personal approach according to age, level, ability, talent (yes!)
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I was trained at one the best music institutions of Russia (Gnessins Musical Pedagogical Institute in Moscow, Gorky Conservatoire in Nizhny Novgorod). I have a Master's degree (M.A. in Classical Music) approved in the USA.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My pricing system based on timing: I charge $40 for 30 min lesson, $50 for 45 min lesson, and $70 for a 1-hour lesson. If I drive to a student's place I add $5.
How did you get started teaching?
Accordingly to a college program, we all had "Pedagogic" subject to learn, and pedagogical practice when we got a student beginner and worked with him under the supervision of our professors.
What types of students have you worked with?
The youngest stud was 5 years old, the oldest was 75. I worked with beginners from "ground zero" to very advanced ones.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My last Spring class concert was a little sad: 3 of my students were graduating from a high school and leaving from my class to colleges. One of my students started my lessons 11 years ago: for me, it is like my own daughter got married and leaving home. I prepared a surprise for her. I usually make video recordings on all my class concerts, make DVDs for every student, and during our lessons, we watch it and discuss - what's good and what's bad was in the performance. So I found in my archive all videos of my graduate and combined into one short clip. She was impressed to tears! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ny8Q-E83m3s
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
A Teacher should be a high professional with significant experience. Not necessary well advertised.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What is your goal? Playing for fun? Playing well in a school orchestra? To become a pro?