Violin with Kaitlin S.

I have been teaching private string lessons in the Albany, NY area for the past 8 years. I attended the College of Saint Rose in Albany, NY where I earned both my Bachelor's (2008) and Master's (2010) degrees in Music K-12 Education with a concentration in Violin. My teaching philosophy involves adjusting strategies and methods to meet the needs of students with varying abilities. I use a few different methods of string instruction based upon the age level and ability of each student. A couple of my strengths as a private lesson teacher are my high level of patience and ability to guide students towards success. *** Lesson Details *** As a teacher I tend to be understanding of the individual needs of my students. Beginning string students will learn the importance of proper posture and position, as well as learn some short songs. I use various method books with different students, including Essential Elements 2000, All for Strings, and Suzuki. Depending on the age of the beginning student, I may start them off by rote or by reading notes. As the student progresses we will cover more advanced material. After about 6 months of lessons, the student can typically expect to know a couple of scales, beginning songs, and be able to demonstrate proper posture and bow hold. *** Travel Equipment *** I expect students to provide their own instruments, music books and music stand. I will bring my own instruments for myself to demonstrate. *** Specialties *** I use a variety of methods with my students. With very young children, I find that the Suzuki method works well. I start many beginners with the rote approach in order to work on posture etc. Once this is established we move towards note reading. I use such methods as Essential Elements and All for Strings to teach note reading.