About
Dr. Johnathan Spence has an innate gift for inspiring and guiding musicians of all ages, initiating them into their greatest form. He has over 10 years experience teaching violin and viola and is an active chamber musician, performing for concerts and festivals across the country.
With a desire to create a community for fellow musicians, he offers mentorship through private lessons, chamber music coaching, studio classes, student recitals, faculty concerts, and an immersive summer program. Request a free trial lesson to experience the value of having a chamber musician as your mentor.
Specialties
Do you own a violin?
Student who has an instrument, Student who is planning to purchase an instrument and would like advice
Years experience
No formal training, No formal training; some self-taught experience, 0 – 2 years experience, 2 – 4 years experience, 4+ years of experience
Able to read music
Student can read music, Student cannot read music
Lesson length
30 minutes, 45 minutes, 60 minutes
Student's age
Under 5 years old, 5 – 10 years old, 11 – 13 years old, 14 – 18 years old, 19 – 25 years old, 26 – 45 years old, 46 – 65 years old, Over 65 years old
Instrument interested in
Violin, Viola, Fiddle, I can recommend an instrument
Photos and videos
Reviews
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rhonda H.
My daughter likes his style of teaching. He explained why doing specific things would help her, but he let her know that lots of musicians use different techniques that work better for them than the norm.
January 22, 2025
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isaiah C.
Amazing teachers! Very kind, knowledgeable, and passionate mentors! Theres probably no better music mentors in the whole Virginia Beach area!
January 05, 2024
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
Every new student will have a free trial lesson to meet and see if it’s a good fit for their development. We'll discuss personal goals and how I can help you reach them.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Violinist Johnathan Spence received his Doctorate of Music in Violin and Viola under the study of Hagai Shaham at Stony Brook University in 2017. He is also a graduate of East Carolina University, where he studied with Ara Gregorian.
Dr. Spence performs as concertmaster of The New Carolina Sinfonia, participates in the Next Generation Series of the Four Seasons Chamber Music Festival, and curates Galatea's summer chamber music week during which the students selected for this program receive opportunities to play side-by-side with renowned artists. He continues to play and perform in various chamber music festivals across the country.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
Private sessions
$100 per 60 minute lesson
$75 per 45 minute lesson
$50 per 30 minute lesson
Chamber group sessions (June-August)
$50 — 60 minutes
How did you get started teaching?
I began teaching following the completion of my masters degree in 2012.
What types of students have you worked with?
Students of all ages and ability, starting from 4 years old.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
The quality of one lesson can surpass the experience of ten depending on how you choose to show up.
Services offered
Violin