Best Violin Lessons in Durham, CT

"Absolutely amazing! I am an adult beginner and Lauren has been extremely patient and energetic with me as I learn to not hit other strings and screech."

"This was a great first lesson with Theresa. She did a great job getting to know my 11 year old daughter and listening to her explain her previous experience, as well as listening to her play."

"I took Violin lessons with Nader for about eight years, and I can confidently say that those eight years made me the musician that I am today. When I first met with Nader, I could barely scratch out an elementary level piece. However, I do believe that I can now play any piece with the ability and technique I learned from Nader.
Each lesson consists of scales and arpeggios, scale studies, etudes, bow studies, and one or two pieces of music. Nader teaches with an emphasis on the fundamentals (scales, arpeggios, scale studies, etc.) so as to build the best foundation possible. As far as music goes, the pieces vary with respect to time period and style. Over the years I played and performed several Baroque pieces (Bach Sonatas and Partitas, Leclair Sonata) some Classical pieces (Mozart Violin Concerto) and many Romantic pieces (to name a few: Wienawski Violin Concerto, Debussy’s Claire De Lune, Brahms’ Hungarian Dance, Saint-Saens’ Introduction et. Rondo Capriccioso, Bruch Violin Concerto, Manuel de Falla’s Asturiana) and a few modern pieces (e.g. Barber’s Violin Concerto). For the beginning student, Nader usually chooses a few selections from the Suzuki books, although he doesn’t necessarily teach the Suzuki method. He will also incorporate sight singing (Melodia) and ear training into the lesson to ensure that the student develops and sharpens a proper musical ear.
Over the years I was introduced to and learned many of the important techniques associated with stringed instruments (e.g. vibrato, octaves, fingered octaves, double and triple stops, chords, artificial harmonics, Spicatto, Staccato (and other common bow manipulations), proper shifting between all positions, pizzicato, phrasing, etc.) He has an extensive knowledge of technique and composition which he uses to give the student the best education possible on the matter. Nader also makes sure the student understands that there is more to music than simply playing the notes. He teaches how to phrase and incorporate one’s own musicality into the piece. He also teaches the student about the culture and history surrounding the composer/piece that they are working on. This is not only informative, but also keeps one interested even if they find the piece difficult or frustrating.
There is an annual concert where all the students perform the pieces they had been working on with Nader. This is a fun event with a relaxed yet professional atmosphere where students can showcase their talent and technical improvement. I always enjoyed these concerts as they were a tangible reminder of my own improvement and achievements.
In retrospect, I found my lessons with Nader to be a very well-rounded experience. Not only did I learn how to play an instrument, but I learned how to be a musician. He is an awesome teacher and I cherish the time I spent learning from him; I wouldn't trade my experiences with Nader for anything. He always pushed me beyond what I thought I was capable of and I learned so much from that. He is a very amiable, patient, passionate, generous, and patient teacher, so don’t be afraid to call! Whether you are young or old, beginner or advanced, there is always more to learn. Let Nader be your next teacher!"

"Kudos to Kelvin! He played an integral part in preparing Nick for his audition with the Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra in Atlanta. The best part is that Nick passed the audition and will be joining the orchestra later this month. Kelvin and Nick have a great connection. He truly supports my son's love of music."

"Ben was patient, kind and full of knowledge. He was great at noticing her hand placement and would make visual corrections as well as show her examples of where she should be. For our first online lesson, I was very impressed. We still need to learn more about the technical aspects of being online (example: where to move the output video placement) but I think that just adds to the fun and experience of the whole process."

"Very patient, knowledgeable, and able to analyze areas students must work on"