About
I am a laid-back person. I am easy-going, enthusiastic about violin playing and about teaching and learning music, and I am very patient with my students as well. However, I also try to push my students to approach things in a detailed, precise way, listen carefully to what they are doing, help them learn how to practice on their own, and reach their full potential. I will also show the students how to take care of the violin, and encourage them to make practicing a habit. I try to make the lessons as pleasant as possible. I will also encourage the students to ask questions and we will discuss potential problems. We will set small goals that will lead to bigger goals.
It is an enriching experience to get to know every student individually. Everyone learns differently and has different strengths and weaknesses. In the lessons, I will adapt to and work with the student’s learning style, ways of understanding things and processing information, and overall personality. As the instructor, I will not only give the information, but with a methodical approach, help the student learn how to play the violin and reach his or her goals, over a period of time.
Highlights
Details
Do you own a violin?
Years experience
Able to read music
Lesson length
Student's age
Instrument interested in
Photos and videos
Reviews
Mingfei C.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I use the Suzuki method with beginning students. We work on techniques to hold the violin properly, hold the bow properly, and get a decent sound out of the violin, without too much physical tension. Students begin by learning to play by ear. After they are comfortable playing by ear, we associate the sound with written notes.
I also use the Paul Roland methods so that students can learn the violin in a basic, rudimentary way. It involves a lot of repetitive patterns, back and forth motions that are slow and round, and avoiding excessive tension. This will give the student the tools that he or she needs to learn how to play the violin in a short period of time.
If students have played violin before, we will continue where they left off. We will review fundamentals and correct bad habits, if necessary; and chose repertoire that will advance their technical and musical development and sustain their interest.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have studied with Wanchi Huang at James Madison University, where I earned a Bachelor and a Master of Music, in violin performance. I received my D.M.A. at Catholic University of America, studying with Jody Gatwood. I have also participated in some music festivals. I have been a student at Brevard Music Center, Heifetz International Music Institute, BayView Music Festival, and I was a Teaching Fellow at Interlochen Arts Camp.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
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30 minutes: $30
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45 minutes: $45
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60 minutes: $60
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90 minutes: $90
How did you get started teaching?
When I was a student at JMU, I taught several students privately. The students ranged from retirees to JMU faculty and students to adolescents. I also taught violin in small groups and individual lessons at Baltimore Talent Education Center from 2010 until its closing in 2015. The students at BTEC ranged from pre- kindergarden through high school.
I am currently teaching with Artist Music, Take Lessons, and in my home studio. Students are at various levels, working on various repertoire.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students at all different levels.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
We have student recitals at least twice a year.
It is fun to get together, have the students play with piano accompaniment, and have snacks afterwards.
It becomes a social event, and students can see what other students are doing, how they are learning, and they can all learn from each other.
It gives them something to prepare for and be excited about.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Make sure you are comfortable enough with the teacher to ask questions and address problems.
Try to find someone who has experience with students your age and at your level.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What is the teacher expecting from the student, in the lesson and during the week?
Has the teacher had other students at that level?
Is the teacher willing and able to help with other music, whether it's music the student is doing in orchestra, for a competition, or audition?