Chicago Viola Lessons

n School of Music and the University of Rochester, Farobag studied under Anastasia Jempelis, a pioneer of Suzuki violin pedagogy in the United States. In addition to the Suzuki curriculum, he is also associated with the Royal Conservatory Music Development Program that sets a national standard of musical achievement in various fields.

Befitting his penchant for encouraging artistic interest amongst younger members of his community, Farobag is also the principal conductor of the Zoroastrian Symphony Orchestra that offers a unique mixture of young and seasoned professionals sitting side-by-side in a strictly professional setting. Since the year 2000, the ZSO has staged highly successful performances at various venues in Houston, Chicago, and Toronto. A New Year's eve performance in Los Angeles is scheduled for 2014.

Having also taken graduate-level coursework in educational psychology, mathematics, and philosophy at the University of Chicago, Farobag offers tutelage in various areas of elementary and secondary education as well as in SAT, ACT and GRE test preparation.

Additionally, as a certified Reiki Master, therapeutic and/or educational sessions are also extended to those who may be inclined to alternative healing techniques.

*** Lesson Details ***
Sheer technique is necessary but insufficient to play an instrument well. Aural skills, that include the study of functional tonality and voice-leading are important factors that impart musicality. This is of great import if the prospective musician wants the audience to truly enjoy his or her performance !

Whether it be the 3 Rs or preparation in the performing arts, a remarkable instructor must go well beyond the subject matter at hand and help imbue the student with a spirit of wonder that, in due time, will foster enthusiasm necessary for excellence.

A child emulates and learns to communicate in his or her mother-tongue through a supporting and nurturing environment. Likewise, a student needs to be sufficiently motivated to embrace learning in a familiar supportive manner.

*** Studio Equipment ***
The In-Studio lesson take place in the living room. Driveway parking. No pets.

*** Travel Equipment ***
None; I do expect a reasonably good piano / keyboard at a student's home.

*** Specialties ***
Traditional and Suzuki-based education. Performance and musicality training is open to all instrumentalists.

*** CD's***
Classical Energy, Triton Sound, TS 8501
Salut D'Amour, Triton Sound, TS 9014
Epiphanies1, The Halford Company

skill they master.

*** Lesson Details ***
My approach to teaching is to combine fundamentals with “adventure.” I encourage students to experiment with their instrument and have quite a few budding composers. No two students learn in the same way, so I don’t use the same strategy for each individual. I believe music should be fun and rewarding. I like to expose students to many different types of music, i.e.; jazz, pop, blues, folk and of course, classical. Students are more likely to practice music that speaks to their personality.

My teaching environment is very laid back. I expect my students to practice, but I don’t read them the riot act if they show up to a lesson not having practiced much the week before. I encourage them to practice more the next week and I give them strategies for how to fit practice time into their schedule along with the most efficient way to practice their pieces.

I encourage parents to sit in on their child’s lesson, but I don’t require it. The more a parent is informed about their child’s goals, the better they are able to assist, support and facilitate the student’s practice. Involved parents contribute greatly to a child’s success.

I love teaching adults too! It is never too late to learn an instrument and the rewards carry over into all aspects of life. As with children, music makes us all smarter. Research proves this. We learn complicated spacial and math skills without even realizing it; we’re having too much fun!

I have annual recitals for private students. I speak Spanish.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Basement studio finished and separate from house

*** Travel Equipment ***
Sometimes music. I can refer students to instrument rental or purchase places, but do not have instruments to provide. I can obtain music for the students if they prefer, otherwise I will tell them what and where to buy.

*** Specialties ***
I use Suzuki and other books for material, but my teaching is more traditional. I use actual bowhold from start. My own invention - pinky AND thumb houses. Music reading is introduced fairly early. A little at a time and it's painless.

s is my success! After 3-6 months of lessons, students will have a solid foundation on the instrument and will play some beginning level songs with the proper position and tuning. They will be having a rewarding experience as they learn all the fundamentals. They will discover the joy of music!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Home- small house with music stand, well lit, piano, seating for parents  

*** Specialties ***
Violin
Viola
Traditional
Suzuki
Classical
Fiddling

getting exactly what he/she wants out of the lessons.
2.) The lessons are an appropriate difficulty for the student.
3.) A student's strengths and weaknesses are being addressed with a tailor-made lesson plan and long-term goals.

*** Travel Equipment ***
I can provide a stand. Student is responsible for purchasing an instrument, and any sheet music. I can definitely advise on an instrument to purchase and will instruct with specific music requests.

e lessons at two studios in Chicago, and teach after school group lessons at local elementary schools.
Overall, I absolutely love what I do--playing music and teaching--and I especially look forward to working with you!