About
I wear 3 hats: teacher (12 years), performing musician (over 30 years), and luthier (over 30 years), and know the violin inside and out (literally!).
As a well qualified and experienced teacher (my degree is in Music Education and I have over a decade of private teaching experience), I can work with you in many different ways to achieve your goals and ensure your enjoyment and success.
I started my business, Alter's Violin Shop in 1990 as a repair shop, which is a hat I still wear today. I received formal training in repair and building instruments and in repairing and rehairing bows. Then, I served an apprenticeship, and now have over 30 years of experience at the workbench!
My shop has a nice selection of affordable instruments, bows, cases, and accessories to choose from. All are personally selected by myself, giving consideration to finding the best possible within various price points.
My latest addition is that of an adult string orchestra ensemble. This has been such a fun adventure for myself and those who are a part of it. Meeting weekly, we have a fun time learning to "play well with others", in a friendly environment!
I enjoy helping students get off to a great start, and this includes adults who are just beginning as well and those who are returning after many years away from violin.
Seeing others discover the joy and all the many benefits of playing violin is a great perk. Through my shop and teaching, I've gotten to know such a variety of people, from many backgrounds and of a wide range of ages. Music has a wonderful way uniting people, and providing common ground. It truly is the universal language!
I love that I can address so many aspects of being a violinist, from the vantage point of being an experienced Luthier (repair and restoration person). Often, I have the opportunity to turn around someone's day by discovering a small issue with an instrument or bow that was responsible for creating a big hurdle in learning to play. When the issue is resolved, the student is so liberated in their playing!
Reviews
Rise D.
Shawn W.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
The first step is to get to know the musical background of the student and their points of interest with learning violin. Some students are just beginning violin, but have other musical experience in their past. Having played piano, or another musical instrument makes a difference in my approach moving foward with beginning students.
When students are new to me, but are not new to playing violin, we engage in a bit of conversation about what they've played and what they believe to be their strengths and challenges in playing the violin. After a bit of playing, we can chart a path to move onward and upward!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My degree in in Music Educaton (BME) from Wichita State University. Go Shocks!
I've taught string orchestra in the public schools system, and have taught private violin lessons for the past 12 years.
Founded and direct a string orchestra made up of adults who started learning their instrument post high school.
Member of the Northland Symphony Orchestra for around 30 years! Check them out at https://northlandsymphony.org/
I founded Alter's Violin Shop in 1990, as a repair and rehair shop and later added inventory of instruments, bows, cases, and accessories. If a student needs a instrument, bow, case, or other related item, I can fulfill these needs onsite as well as instrument and bow repair or maintenance needs!
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Pricing for lessons is straightforward. Choose an appropriate length for your lessons (I can help with this if you wish, based upon your situation), and prices are:
30 min $35
45 min $45
60 min $55
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with quite a variety of students. I've taught students from age 7 to 67, and from beginning students to advanced students.
At present, I am seeking adult students, who are returning to violin, or are wanting to begin playing violin.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Seek to have a good personal connection with the teacher, and don't be shy about changing teachers if you aren't making progress or enjoying your lessons!