James Cleveland - Fiddle

James Cleveland - Fiddle

5.0Exceptional(14 reviews)
Offers online services
Offers online services

About

I'm a fiddler and teacher. I've been teaching fiddle for the Irish Arts Center in New York City since 1999 and have introduced over a hundred new players to the instrument. I started playing the fiddle as an adult (at 30) which gives me insight to the needs of the adult beginner.

Since every student is different, I don't have a "one size fits all" approach, but use several methods. I like teaching by ear, but understand that some players find sheet music helpful, too.

Playing an instrument is rewarding, but is also challenging. I love to see students get excited about the music, and witness as they progress! As the great fiddler, Alasdair Fraser said, "playing the fiddle is inevitable, so you may as well get started!" It's also a journey and not a destination - an important idea to keep in mind.


Highlights

Hired 1 time
Serves Weehawken , NJ
Offers online services

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Reviews

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MK

Mark K.

James is a very able teacher and A very pleasant man. I felt my confidence building rapidly despite having no previous experience. Even though I was in a large class James was able to give lots of individual attention to me and everyone else. We learned many songs and I’m still playing today 3 years later. James is also very much involved in local nyc Irish music scene.
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April 10, 2020

MG

MG G.

James is SO patient and explains everything really well. He is an excellent teacher, and he is wonderfully encouraging to all.
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July 27, 2018

MD

Maureen D.

James was patient and knowledgeable, I am absolutely going to continue taking lessons with him.
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July 12, 2018

MV

Maria V.

James is an excellent teacher! I took his class for absolute beginners this spring. The class was enjoyable, and I ended it feeling like I had a great base for continuing my practice. James was patient, knowledgeable, and more than willing to answer questions. In addition to teaching the basics of fiddle, he shared a lot of information about the history, context, and different styles of the instrument and what we were playing, which I loved. I will definitely be taking classes with him in the future and highly recommend you do too!
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July 02, 2018

CC

Catherine C.

James Cleveland was a fantastic teacher. I highly recommend him to you. My overall experience was excellent! He was organized, patient, and accessible for questions. He created a relaxed environment to learn, and provided all the materials, such as videos and notation to review the tunes.
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June 20, 2018

KG

Kathleen G.

He explains basic musical concepts well, such that even the least experienced musician can grasp the ideas. Working with him as a beginner was great - hes patient, knowledgeable, and so darn nice :)
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June 14, 2018

Services offered

Violin