About
Violinist Elizabeth Carlson (formerly Elizabeth Cary) is a professional freelance performer and music educator residing in Cherry Hill, NJ, just outside of Philadelphia. She earned a degree in violin performance from Ithaca College, and has completed additional coursework at the Ithaca College Suzuki Institute including Books 1 & 2 training. She is an active freelance performer in the greater Philadelphia area and South Jersey, and founding member of Prometheus Chamber Orchestra in Philadelphia.
As a teacher, Elizabeth Carlson offers traditional, fiddle, and Suzuki private & group lessons in the greater Philadelphia area and South Jersey. She teachers at several locations, with students from the Philadelphia area and South Jersey. Her students have been accepted to Temple University Boyer College of Music, All South Jersey Orchestra, Philly All City Orchestra, Musicopia Youth Orchestra, and Rowan Youth Orchestra.
In addition to her extensive experience and training as a classical violinist, she is a skilled and creative improviser and genre hopper, playing Jazz, Rock, Bluegrass, and Celtic. She toured internationally with the folk-rock group, Blackmore's Night from 2007-2011. She is currently a member of the Philadelphia-based bluegrass band, Man About a Horse.
For inquiries about lesson availability and pricing please contact: [email protected]
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Do you own a violin?
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Able to read music
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Instrument interested in
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
At a typical first lesson with a beginner, we'll talk about why the student and parent have chosen violin. We'll talk about how to practice to ensure success, and if the student doesn't have an instrument yet I usually recommend a few options for rentals or purchase.
For an experienced student, I like to hear about past experiences with music and violin, and hear a few pieces the student has worked on. After playing, we'll talk about some goals for our work together.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a degree Music/Violin Performance from Ithaca College and Suzuki teacher training.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
My prices vary slightly depending on location. Lessons in my Haddon Twp. home studio are:
$33 for 30 minutes
$45 for 45 minutes
$60 for 60 minutes
How did you get started teaching?
While I was still in college, I had a request for lesson from a local high school student. We began working together, and I found that watching her confidence with violin and quick progress was incredibly rewarding. I've been offering private lesson ever since.
What types of students have you worked with?
All types! I have experience teaching beginners as young as 3, and up to retired adults who decided to start violin later in life!
I also enjoy working with more advanced students who are looking to improve their technique and tone, or prepare for auditions.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
In June, 2016 I married the love of my life and became a step-mom to two amazing kids. We had a casual wedding out in the woods, and an afterparty with lots of musicians around a campfire playing and singing under the stars.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Take a few trial lessons with different teachers. Find someone who you know will be a good fit! There are many great teachers and great students out there who for one reason or another wouldn't be a great fit for each other. Finding the right violin teacher can be a long term commitment, so pick someone who understands your goals and learning style.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Anything that's on your mind! Asking the teacher any concerns you have early on can get a great way to help them learn about you and your preferred learning style!
To help you and your teacer set goals, think about how much time you will have to practice. If you have certain times of the year that are busier due to other extracurriculars let your teacher know.