Clements, MD Viola Lessons

I do a variety of styles in music for the violin. I use whatever method (book or teaching style) is needed to teach what the student needs to learn.

Whether you're 3 or 103, if you're playing viola (or starting to play!) I hope you're EXCITED about it!! Over the years, my students have said that their lessons are/have been their favorite times of each week. I believe learning to play viola should be full of joy, learning, thinking, and feeling. Bring that joy alive for yourself by partnering with me as your musical guide. I bring over 30 years of experience and pure joy to my work, and I'd love to share that with you!

Viola was my first instrument and I can help you with everything from traditional classical repertoire to modern world, folk and jazz. I like to focus on music theory and reading skills, in addition to developing musicality from the first lesson.

I love the viola; I'm primarily a violist and love nothing more. I would love to share my passion with you or your child!

I have a Master's degree in Viola Performance, and viola is my primary instrument. I have received extensive instruction on the minutiae of the viola, and can help you with any need that you many have!

I tailor my approach to each student. Some students require more technical work, some require interpretive. Both are fascinating and can be taught with structure and clarity.

I like to focus on correct playing position, reading the clefs associated with viola, scales, etudes, solo pieces, shifting, and vibrato.I've taught a wide range of students. From beginner to intermediate to advanced. I've taught students as young as 4 to students in their 60's.

I teach viola from beginner to advanced, from basics, shifting, vibrato, music theory, technique,different bow stokes and styles to the most refine concepts of viola artistry.
I love to teach solo classical repertoire but also viola orchestral repertoire, chamber music repertoire, improvisation and Romanian folk music.
I also teach group ensembles, duos, trios, quartets, etc. I help students with their orchestral music and audition pieces. I believe music teaches discipline, builds self esteem; helps set and achieve goals; and positively affects and enhances other curricular endeavors. My students look forward to coming to their lesson, and that is very rewarding as a teacher.

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 regularly play with local community orchestras 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.

Drawing from a wide array of performance and teaching experiences, I tailor unique lessons to Viola and Violin students of all kinds who are ready to take their playing to the next level. I hold all of my students to a high level of achievement, while integrating their personal goals into my lessons. Students will learn basic skills, advanced techniques, music theory, music history, among other subjects to help inform effective and enjoyable performances. What do you want to achieve? Let me know and let's work together to get there!

I am here to assist you on your journey to making music! I can help you to clean dust off something old, or begin something new. I enjoy all periods and genres of music, and find my inspiration accordingly. From Bach to Bartok, I can help you ace your next audition, lesson, concert, or recital.

I have been teaching viola since 2008. I have performed on movie soundtracks and was a guest soloist with Hamline University Orchestra. I am certified in Suzuki Method and also teach traditional lessons. I've worked with students age 4 to adult.

You are never too old to begin! I've worked with beginners of all ages.

Playing viola is about so much more than just classical music and scales! Although we love scales. Scales are how we show off how fast we can play. In addition to solid fundamentals of technique and musicality, I teach a broad range of styles including folk/fiddle, pop, and movie and video game scores. You'll get to learn the music that YOU want to play!