About
Marina Konishi Comfort teaches private lessons. She graduated from the University of Louisville in December of 2014 with a Bachelor Degree in Violin Performance under the guidance of Mrs. Brittany MacWilliams. She previously did all of her musical studies in Switzerland with Mrs. Yolande Leroy, protégée of famous violinist Tibor Varga at the Conservatoire Cantonal de Sion. Marina attended the Gymnase Auguste Piccard in Lausanne, a special high school for gifted musicians, then went on to study at the Conservatoire de Lausanne Haute Ecole de Musique, a professional conservatory, while attending her last year of high school. She has had the privilege of performing as a soloist in Romania and Switzerland, as well as to tour Costa Rica with the University of Louisville Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Prof. Kimcherie Lloyd. Marina participated in masterclasses with Prof. Gyula Stuller in Switzerland and France. She has also studied extensively with Prof. Kurt Sassmannshaus by participating in masterclasses in Germany, China, Italy and the United States. Her pedagogical skills are acquired from learning the Sassmannshaus method from both Prof. Sassmannshaus and Mrs. Brittany MacWilliams. Marina incorporates different aspects of her European musical education into her teaching. She is passionate about teaching violin, desiring her students to be proficient and skilled violinists and have great enjoyment in learning to play.
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to assess their strengths and weaknesses when it comes to learning so that I can better cater my teaching style based on their needs. I usually do an initial assessment at the first lesson while I teach them their first lesson. I offer a free trial lesson, so make sure to shoot me a request so we can see whether or not we’re a good match!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I grew up in Switzerland, and I’ve gotten a European background in classical violin. I started when I was six and never stopped! I’ve been playing for over 20 years, and I have a Bachelors degree in Violin Performance from the University of Louisville, KY.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
The pricing will depend on the location. I teach in Oldham County in Crestwood, KY and in Middletown KY and can offer in home lessons (this is based on an interview I will have with you - this option is not for everyone).
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching as a college student, and fell passionately in love with it! I’ve been teaching for 7 years and have developed a system that balances proper technical ability to play, being able to read music and have knowledge of music theory, as well as enjoyment of learning violin!
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with children starting at age 4 through college years - students of many levels! I also teach adult students of all ages.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure that the teacher is able to offer you balance. It’s important to not just be able to play violin, but play it well. And to be able to further enjoy music note reading is extremely important. This will allow the student to continue learning on their own. Not every teacher is the perfect fit for every student, so trial lessons can be helpful before deciding who to choose!