Violin with Nicholas P.

Welcome! I am a full-time violin/viola teacher from New York and a registered member of the Suzuki Association of the Americas. I am an active performer of contemporary and classical music, and my commitment is to instill my students with both a passion for playing music and a strong technical foundation. My teaching method is tailored to each student's individual learning style and motivation for playing. The first question I will ask at every first lesson is: what music do you love? This can be one song - a nursery rhyme, classical melody, or popular song - or a genre of music. Regardless of age, I believe that the most effective path for learning violin or viola is to start with the music! For younger children, I suggest beginning with the Suzuki method in order to establish strong musical and technical fundamentals. The Suzuki curriculum is often chosen across music programs in New York, providing beginning violinists an opportunity to play music with their peers. I also teach the Mark O'Connor method, which specializes in American folks song. For adolescents and adults, I place an earlier emphasis on designing a curriculum based on their musical interests, with equal focus devoted to technique. I also teach improvisation at the beginning stages to all students to encourage free musical expression. Students with experience playing violin or viola are absolutely welcome. Students are encouraged to perform what they have worked on at the annual studio recital at Ripley Grier Studios, which will include a piano accompanist. Feel free to contact TakeLessons with any questions!