About
I have enjoyed teaching violin and viola to private students of all levels in my home and in various schools for almost thirty years. I am a graduate of The Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York and recently retired from 22 years as a violinist with the Austin Symphony Orchestra. I have also published original songs and can pass on tips for students who would like to compose (www.loveyourenemies.com). I'm now living in Monson, Massachusetts and am available to perform and teach in that area (www.lindadayviolin).
I love to share the gift of music to all types of students. As a mother and grandmother, I can relate to children and their parents. I still hear from students I taught from childhood to adulthood: each student is unique! I had to give up my violin for 22 years while I brought up my children; it was such a thrill to pick it up again! As I re-learned my techniques, I discovered new approaches, so that I can help others who are also starting again after many years.
Highlights
Reviews
Heather S.
Jill R.
Linda R.
Bill
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
If the student has no prior experience or musical education, I start with Book I of "Essential Elements." This is a very user-friendly book; students can learn from the book between lessons. After a few lessons, I start using Suzuki, Book One, which has very nice tunes and recorded accompaniments. If the student has had some training, I ask him/her to bring in whatever he worked on with a former teacher; we start from there. In the case of a self-taught student, I always ask what that student needs from lessons; he usually has a clear idea about that. I am very flexible about lesson formats.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I majored in violin at Eastman and also studied composition. I have taught privately and in schools for almost 30 years and have played professionally for the same length of time. One major project with young students was to prepare them for orchestra auditions; I also coached small ensembles for school programs.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $20.00 per half-hour lesson, $30.00 for 45 minutes, $40.00 for one hour. If there are several students, minimum lesson time is one hour @ $20.00 per student.
How did you get started teaching?
Our local middle schools in Austin, Texas, had student orchestras and needed private string teachers. I used to drive around to several schools and teach during the school day, co-ordinating student preparation with the conductors. When school let out for summer, these students started coming to my home. At one point I had 42 private students! Now that I am retired here in Massachusetts, I still teach, but keep the student level to about 15.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with all ages, from 4 1/2 to very elderly, aspiring professionals and those who just wanted to enjoy familiar tunes.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My students gave a farewell recital as I was getting ready to move from Austin to Monson, Massachusetts. I was proud of all of them!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure your teacher knows the style of music you like, and make sure he/she has the patience to analyze any problems you have.