About
I LOVE being a music teacher! I'm blessed to have about 35 students of all ages and all levels (mostly beginners or those with a few years experience are the majority). Each lesson is designed around you and your goals. Its important to learn the violin and viola with correct form and technique, so we spend some time at the beginning of each lesson to get you in "violin or viola mode," as I like to call it. I'll also give you a little technical challenge to do, such as an etude or scaler exercise, we'll play something new to practice sight reading and then get to the piece you are working on. You'll learn exactly how to play in tune and get around reliably, how to play with a beautiful sound, and be able to sight read, and much more.
I enjoy helping each of my students pursue their individual musical journey!
Photos and videos
Reviews
Scott G.
Dinyar C.
Rachel R.
Ruth A.
Bob B.
Haoxian C.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
When we first meet, I'll ask you to play me something so I can get a feel for where you are...whether its a scale or a piece you have been playing. If you don't know anything that's fine too! My lessons are designed around you so every lesson is different depending on the student, however, lessons will be divided into ear training, building technique through scales, etudes, and developing strong hand patterns, and lastly, of course, building your repertoire!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance from the University of Arizona and a Master of Music from Temple University in Viola Performance. I have performed with The Arden Theater here in Philadelphia, and have performed solo, in a chamber setting, and orchestral settings in the finest concert halls across China, Italy, England, and the USA. I have taught 30-40 students each week at varying ages and levels since 2015 and was on the faculty of the Interharmony International Music Festival in Acqui Terme, Italy in 2018.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
30 minutes $40
60 minutes $80
Lessons are scheduled on a monthly basis, so to keep it easy, lessons are paid for on the first lesson of the month.
How did you get started teaching?
I started teaching here while I was in my Master's program at Temple University, although I did have a small studio while I was pursuing my Bachelor's in Arizona. It became a passion and completely took over my life! My degree is in Viola Performance, however, being a music teacher is definitely my passion!
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with children, young adults, and adults. Some students are hobbyists, while others are headed on the professional path. I enjoy helping each of my students pursue their individual musical journey!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
Last summer I taught at the Interharmony International Music Festival and Academy in Italy! It was fun to bring some of my studio along to experience that, I'll never forget it!
Most recently, I attended the Lionel Tertis International Viola Competition on the Isle of Man, UK and took my studio along. It was an incredible experience to be surrounded by the best violists in the world and to be able to participate in the viola ensemble each day. Hearing the competitors was so inspiring and made me excited to return home to share everything I learned with my students.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
See if they are actually a teacher or just trying to fill in time around their gig schedule.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
Musical studies take time and money--even without a teacher. Given that be, honest with yourself about whether or not it's something you can commit to. :)