About
My aim is to teach the "whole person", to communicate clearly, to inspire and to key into each person's path to learning. My students should enjoy the learning process and reap the benefits of their hard work - and I believe they do!
I love sharing my passion for the violin and music, and enjoy watching my students learn, gain confidence and become inspired themselves!
Highlights
Photos and videos
Reviews
Denise G.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like to take a little time for us to get to know one another and for me to learn what my student's goals are. Everyone is treated as an individual, as our learning styles are not all the same. I break down the learning into steps that can be mastered, keeping it both fun and challenging.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Along with a Certification in the Suzuki Method for Violin, I have a Masters in Performance (Manhattan School of Music) and a B.S. in Music Education.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
How much are lessons?
1 hour / $75.00 45 minutes / $60.00 30 minutes / $45.00 15 minutes / $30.00
Group classes TBA
There is a one-time yearly registration fee of $175 for all students.
How did you get started teaching?
Music has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. With two older sisters, a younger brother and a younger sister that all played, there were times when one could hear practicing from every almost every corner of the house! My father always had some kind of music playing, whether it be Mozart, Ella or a Bulgarian women’s chorus and it became a joyful backdrop to my growing up. Not surprisingly, pursuing a career in music through playing and teaching the violin was a natural choice for me.
My younger sister Bethany, now a violinist with the Canadian Opera Company, was one of my first students!
What types of students have you worked with?
All kinds....from pre-schoolers through high school and adult beginners/amateurs as well. It's all fun!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
The NY Philharmonic had an awesome concert in Prospect Park this summer! They featured works by Dvorak, Gershwin and Bernstein.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Find a teacher with whom you are comfortable and has a clear understanding and knowledge of your needs and goals. Lessons should be enjoyable and challenge you to discover what you can do. A teacher should have both good listening and communication skills - and be able to inspire you!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
~ What are my goals?
~ Do I have any issues (physical, learning or otherwise) that would be beneficial for the teacher to know about?
~ Am I willing to making the time to practice?
~ Will I be able to keep my lessons up on a (somewhat) regular basis?