Best Violin Lessons in Glyndon, MD

Damien G. received his Bachelor’s degree in Clarinet Performance from Loyola University New Orleans, his Master’s Degree from the University of North Texas, and is currently working on his DMA at the University of North Texas. As an undergrad at Loyola University, Damien toured as a clarinet soloist with the Loyola Chamber Orchestra in Yugoslavia, Hungary, and Vienna. He has been a member of the UNT Wind Symphony , under Eugene Corporan, and the UNT Orchestra, led by Anshel Brusilow. More recently, he has performed at two UNT concerto concerts as a soloist with the UNT chamber orchestra. Damien also has performed with the Contemporary Theater of Dallas along with other freelance activities in the DFW area. His teachers include: Mr. A. Crisanti,Dr. James Gillespie, Dr. John Scott, Steve Cohen, Daryl Coad, and John Reeks.

I use many methods including Suzuki, Kodaly and traditional teachings that include catered practice plans in order to accommodate each student's learning needs. I am very flexible and more than happy to discuss teaching methods and/or special needs with parents and students.

I have been teaching violin for seven years. Though I am classically trained, my interest in music goes far beyond classical music. I am constantly listening to various genres of music and consider myself a forever learner, loving everything in music from Prokofiev to the Flaming Lips. It is my job to help guide my students through their musical journeys, whether that is helping them get into their regional orchestra or teaching them that one song they've always wanted to learn. I teach out of the Essential Elements and Suzuki Method books. Though my lessons are fun and relaxed I will always give my students that extra push when needed. My goal is to help each student reach their personal success and to instill a love for playing music.

Tools for lessons:

Music Stand
Rosin
Shoulder rest or sponge
Previous method books (if you are not a first time learner)
Metronome
Pencil

When I teach violin, my lessons address students' performance goals while also emphasizing that the music-making experience should be about fun and enjoyment. I bring enthusiasm and curiosity to lessons as I facilitate students' musical growth.

What students can expect to gain from my lessons: technical excellence + wholistic musical education + enjoyment.

I teach students of all ages, and welcome students with different musical (and non-musical) backgrounds. As a violinist and composer myself, I teach classical violin while nurturing my students through a wholistic musical education, empowering them to take control of, play, and enjoy various genres of music. My goal is to share and grow in my students a lifelong enjoyment of violin and music.

Learn how to hold the violin and bow correctly, how to tune, and how to read music. You may expect to learn the basics of playing the violin.