About
*Due to COVID-19 I will be adhering to social distancing policies for in-home lessons such as wearing a face covering and maintaining a safe distance during lessons*
I usually work with children or teenagers and I can teach someone who has never played an instrument before as well as intermediate players. I use a variety of books that teach theory, rhythm and playing songs such as the Suzuki method, I Can Read Music, the String Builder series and Winning Rhythms by Edward Ayola. For the pieces I focus on a routine to prepare and perform "performance ready" pieces so students gain confidence in their playing and know the level of expectation for what a professional polished piece sounds like.
For complete beginners I focus a lot on the correct positioning because that is the base for playing and it is very hard further down the line to change a bad habit related to positioning.
For more advanced players I focus on the core skills such as intonation and the ability to read notes and rhythms but I also incorporate how to add musicality and flare to a piece so that it is emotional and interesting to listen to.
Highlights
Reviews
Linda V.
Ruchin P.
Liz L.
Art D.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
It depends on the student's age and experience. For very young kids who are just beginning, I like to bring a couple songs that I used when I was a kid to learn the different strings and be comfortable with using the bow. They are called the Flower Song, the Monkey Song and the Ant Song. If they are more experienced or older, I just go straight to the book I Can Read Music to teach them how to read music and experiment with playing notes on the violin for the first time.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have had formal music education for 12 years and I have been taught by musicians in the National Philharmonic as well as the National Symphony Orchestra (both in Washington, D.C.). I have participated in many orchestras as well as prestigious music opportunities such as All-State Orchestra and Interlochen Summer Music Camp.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I charge $45/hr, $40/45min and $35/30min.
What types of students have you worked with?
I have worked with students from ages 5-25 years old who have had no experience and/or 1-3 years experience.