Cortaro, AZ Violin Lessons

Beginners: posture, finger techniques, bow techniques, sound production, articulation, phrasing, note reading
Intermediate: interpretation of different styles, dynamics, ensemble performance, building solid technique and stamina
Advanced: studying of orchestra excerpts, solo pieces, study of various concert and chamber music compositions

Student needs to have the instrument. I usually use Essential Elements and Suzuki books for beginner and intermediate students. Also String Tunes.

I picked up the fiddle a few years ago. It's much smaller than the bass, but utilizes many of the same principals in performance. I play with my youth orchestra - Santa Monica Youth Orchestra - every week and help the section sound more cohesive.

Once you start shifting a whole bunch, we'll get you off to a more experienced fiddle player.

Have you been playing for a long time, or have you never picked up the instrument before? Whether you are a child or an adult, I have a style of teaching for you. I've been playing since I was a child and have a special place in my heart for the is instrument. I actually began learning from a fiddle player and trained classically later. If you want to learn how to succeed in playing this rewarding and satisfying style, this is the place for you.
Are wondering why every time you hit a certain note, it squeaks, or crunches, or sounds glassy? Or maybe you can't quite read the notes. Perhaps you are no stranger to the instrument, but need improvement of musicianship, expression, etc. Let me help you master the skills you're trying to achieve. With my help, you can make breathtaking music!

Basics of scales and intonation development, reading, bowing basics and fiddle style bowing rhythms, improvising, double-stops

I began playing the violin in fourth grade and continued all the way through high school. I spent a lot of time learning the technique of solo playing as well as the balance necessary with the other instruments of the orchestra. I also spent two years in my high school’s chamber orchestra.

My studio is ideal for the study of violin because I can accompany my students on my grand piano.

I began teaching violin and viola in 2012. I have enjoyed working with students of varying ages, who thus far have ranged from age 3.5 to adult. Each one of my students is unique, and I appreciate that in each lesson, I can focus on the needs and strengths of that individual student. On my own, I particularly enjoy playing with other people. I often play harmony parts with my students when they have mastered their current piece both to help verify their competency and to acclimate them to playing with others. I currently play viola with the San Francisco Civic Symphony and sight-read chamber music with fellow musicians. I have greatly enjoyed both teaching music and learning about music pedagogy through the Suzuki Association of the Americas.

Watch for me also on the TakeLessons teacher blog. A few of my articles include:
takelessons.com/blog/violin-goals-for-beginners
http://takelessons.com/blog/violin-for-kids-measuring-success

Aside from all the technical aspects of learning violin, I will coach you to become a confident musician. You will achieve this confidence by strengthening your skills and having fun at the same time!

You will learn: proper technique, music theory, music history, to sight-read, tune your violin, solos, collaborate with other musicians, how to conduct, and how to prepare for an audition.

I take the lessons at the student's learning pace, and I challenge them to get past mental barriers.

Whether you are playing as a hobby, interested in preparing for an audition, or simply need extra help, this is the place for you. You must be able to purchase/rent a violin.

If you want lessons in your home, contact me and we will see if I can make the arrangements, otherwise, lessons are held in my home studio.

Classically trained, but I also love Irish and Bluegrass fiddle! Or, I can make skill-appropriate arrangements of whatever music you want to learn, and teach you the technique you need to master it!

I love sharing music with people of all ages. When your teacher is having a great time too, you'll learn more, better and faster!

I really can't describe the emotion of seeing a student light up when they conquer a new technique or figure out that song they obsessed over. Whether your child wants to join the school orchestra and learn classical method; or you were inspired by Lindsey Stirling and just want to learn that one song; or you're retired and have always dreamt of crossing "Learn an Instrument" off your bucket-list, I would love to guide you on your journey to musical literacy!

Much of my methods are derived from my doctoral dissertation studies in the field of Sports Psychology. I apply my teaching methods to develop and increase control of muscular and mental functions, accuracy, precision, discipline, mental awareness and overall coordination in violin performance. I am eager to share my knowledge and experience in sports psychology and to emphasize the general psychological benefits and contribution to human enrichment.

​My students earn numerous accolades, such as Concertmaster and title positions in the: Colburn Chamber and Los Angeles Youth Orchestras, Santa Monica High School Chamber Orchestra, Idyllwild Music Festival Symphony and Chamber Orchestras, Interlochen Music Festival, Honor Orchestra of America, and Santa Monica High School Symphony and Chamber Orchestra, Palisades High School Symphony; Grand Prize in the Fifth International Colibri Music Competition, Westside Committee of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Student Scholarships and ...