Vanessa's String Studio
About
My name is Vanessa and I am a highly qualified and experienced string teacher focusing particularly on viola and violin pedagogy. I have been living, teaching, performing, and attending school in Boston for the past 6 years. I recently received my Masters in Music Education from the Boston Conservatory and am looking to specialize in strings and elementary general music although I am qualified to teach all ensembles and all instruments. I currently teach strings full time in the Somerville Public Schools and also teach privately both from my home and virtually. Prior teaching jobs include teaching private lesson at the ALP program at Milton High School, and teaching group string lessons at an elementary school in Quincy. I also have experience working in El Sistema programs throughout the Boston Area. I love teaching and believe that there is no one approach for all students. Learning needs and styles are individual and it is up to the teacher to figure out how to best communicate instruction, musical ideas and concepts, and to help motivate the student based on their goals and abilities. I teach all ages and feel confident in my ability to relate well to my students and make them feel comfortable.
I love that I get the opportunity to expose students to music and help them find their love of it. I work hard to read each student individually and find repertoire and teaching techniques that fit each student. My goal is for students to love playing music. I love that I am lucky enough to say that is my job!
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I first try to figure out what their knowledge base is so that I can determine the next step with regard to new skills and concepts. This can range from physical ability to music reading abilites, to music theory knowledge.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have been working in the music education field for the past eight years and recently received my Masters in Music Education.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Yes I charge $40 for 30 minutes, $50 for 45 minutes, and $60 for an hour.
How did you get started teaching?
I have been teaching on off since high school but my teaching career really started when I was hired to teach viola at El Sistema Somerville. There I fell in love with teaching and instilling life long skills in students.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with many types of music ranging from students who speak nearly no English, to students who have learning disabilites. I have worked with very young students and have also taught adult students. I have worked with students in a one on one setting and have also worked with students in groups or semi-private lessons. I have worked with students from all income levels and a number of different backgrounds, ethnicities, and cultures.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
I would advise the student to find a teacher that will push them but who will do it in a way that is encouraging and positive and makes them fell comfortable.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Students should decide what their personal goals are so that the teacher can meet the student where they need to be met and help them achieve their individual goals.