Saratoga, CA Viola Lessons

teach music for over 24 years using the traditional and Suzuki methods. I am a fan of the Essential Elements 2000 for string instruments, and the Alfred's Piano Library for piano. Alfred's piano library can be used for any age as they also have books especially made for adult learners. I also like their music flash cards.
For teaching music theory I mostly used Master Theory.

I personalize every lesson, and always set goals for my students. Most of my violin students are members of the Florida Youth Orchestra as well as Gold Coast Youth Orchestra and my piano students participate in Pompano Beach competition and the annual Piano Guild auditions.
I teach any age and any level, and always stress that learning a new instrument is very similar to learning a new language, it needs a lot of patience, persistence and repetitions. My lessons are customized to my students needs, and are work in progress as they needs may change over time. I always remind my students that music can give them instant gratification when they learn to play favorite songs.
I always encourage my students to tell me about their music preferences, so I can incorporate them in their music lessons.

*** Lesson Details ***
All my tutoring sessions include reviews of previously learned material and if possible the use of technology. I use students books but often bring extra study materials if necessary.
All my lessons include: technique: I like to use the Finger Power for piano students and Essential Elements for my string students, and scales for both.
music theory: I use Master Theory or other books such as Hal Leonard's Piano Note spellers & Piano Music Theory books for younger ages, music flash cards to support learning notes and musical terminology, and of course the fun part performance.

Besides Essential Elements 2000 for strings I also use String Tunes and Fiddle Runners to add more fun to the lessons. For piano students I use Holiday Treats book, which comes in 2 different levels: Beginner & Intermediate, so my students have a new songs for a specific holiday.

*** Studio Equipment ***
I always bring violin with me to be able to show what I teach.

*** Travel Equipment ***
The students needs to have their books and assigned material ready for tutoring. Instrumental students needs to have their music books & instrument available as well as a pencil. I always stress with my students to be organized and prepared for their lesson, this way they will be able to focus better during the lesson. I bring my violin with me. I also ask that the room where the lesson takes place to be free of any distractions, such other siblings or any other noise. The quiet environment helps in faster learning.

*** Specialties ***
I tutor most K-12 subjects and prepare students to take ACT, SAT, GRE tests.
Music genres: Classical, traditional, Suzuki, Popular, Celtic, fiddle, Blues

ned the basics and want to improve their playing. I am a proponent of teaching the basics of music reading and common musical terms. I can teach music through a variety of curricula, and will work with my students to choose a method that best suits their goals. I have a large music studio in my home that has a separate entrance,which is conducive to music making (with it's own bathroom). I accept students 8 years of age and older.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Has a keyboard, but no drum set

*** Travel Equipment ***
I prefer to teach in my home studio.

*** Specialties ***
I have been teaching band, orchestra & choir in public schools for 30+ years.

a.

Since 2006 I have been an active teacher. This profession has taken me everywhere from working with classical guitar classes in New Mexico high schools to Elementary students in Japan to a variety of private students of various musical instruments and genres everywhere I've been. Since relocating to the Bay Area in 2010, I've had the pleasure of working with lots of great students from kids to adults with a wide range of ambitions. Since 2012 I've been running my own full time studio along.

Philosophy of Learning

Lessons are generally designed to work towards giving students the tools to accomplish their goals and become increasingly independent over time. While all students will study similar fundamentals regarding technique, theory, and performance, every lesson is as different as every person. What kind of music do you want to make? I'll tell you what you need to do to get there, and help you take the steps to achieve your aspirations.

I also love to help students put together a song, record, and produce it for them so that they can have a recording to share with their friends and family.

I also hold events for my students. (Check out our pictures and videos below!)
Younger students have the "Young Musicians Showcase" every few months where individual students and band classes have a chance to perform and celebrate their accomplishments with friends and family.
Adult students occasionally have events where they get a chance to get together and play music as well.

Aside from in-studio lessons, students also have the option to sign up for online lessons via Skype.
(*Online lessons offered during different times than in-studio lessons.)

*Unfortunately due to scheduling issues, I'm not currently accepting students for bi-weekly lessons. I can do regular weekly lessons, or occasional drop-in lessons, but bi-weekly appointments make it really hard for me to give the best scheduled times to my existing weekly students. I'm sorry for the inconvenience.

My studio is equipped with:

*Multiple Music Stands

*P.A. System

*Vocal and instrument microphones

*Guitars, Basses, and a Banjo

*Two guitar amps and a bass amp

*Various percussion including a fully equipped acoustic drum set

*A Roland V-Drums electronic drum set

*An electric piano console

*A MicroKorg Synthesizer

*A Tuba, Trombone, Cornet, and Flute

*An extensive physical and virtual music library

*A recording system that students are not only welcome to use but encouraged to

*HD Webcam and condenser microphone for high fidelity online lessons via Skype

ickly learn the basics and start playing familiar melodies. I teach memorization techniques to develop a performing repertoire.
In addition, my students develop abilities in rhythm, melody, harmony, understanding of theory, and improvisation. I also help with school orchestra practice and audition preparation.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Dedicated Music Space, desk, piano, recording equipment, music stands, couch for parents to observe and wait or participate.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I expect the student to provide their own violin and bow, music stand and a notebook. Students may also need to purchase sheet music/music books. I will provide basic recording equipment (audio and video), and pre-recorded piano or orchestra accompaniment. A live piano accompanist is available for recitals and pre-recital rehearsals.

*** Specialties ***
Classical Violin, Viola
Fiddle - Klezmer, American, Celtic
Piano - beginning and intermediate levels
Music Theory, Ear Training, Sight Reading, Improvisation.

nd encouraged to do their best.

My spacious studio is equipped with a Yamaha upright piano and my own extensive music library.

he districts of Livonia and Plymouth Canton and adjudicates throughout the Metro area.