Best Violin Lessons in Santa Fe, NM

I am a full-time, classically trained ethnofolk musician from Santa Fe, NM. My area of expertise is primarily in Klezmer and Eastern European music. I have been teaching both private lessons and youth ensembles for over a decade. I use time-tested methodology from classical technique books with all of my students from beginner through advanced. I also take individualized approaches to more advanced students whose interest may expand further than the classical world. In particular, I am well-versed in teaching world folk styles and jazz.

I am an experienced violinist of 24 years, and have performed nationally and internationally in locations such as Carnegie Hall, Europe, and Asia. I am a passionate and experienced teacher, and have worked with students of all ages and levels. I can't wait to help you on your musical journey!

For all my students, I strive to cultivate independence of thought and creativity so that they can communicate their ideas to the highest musical and technical degree. My pedagogy promotes proper and relaxed positioning of the violin, strong rhythmic integrity, and active listening. My goal is for all students to develop their own musical voices, which in turn makes learning music and the violin fun and engaging!

All lessons will incorporate theory, technique and repertoire. Practice recordings specifically tailored to you will also be available to help practice be fun and engaging!

I am offering violin lessons, both online and at students' places! Whether you have no music experience at all or have some violin experience, I can help you improve technique and musicality by working on exercises and various pieces of music. Not only do I draw from my experience studying music and taking private lessons since childhood, but I also tailor my lessons to meet each student’s individual learning style and interests.

Learning an instrument is no easy feat, but having the right plan, structure, and support makes all the difference. My teaching philosophy is designed to meet each student where they are, with a custom approach tailored to their individual needs.

I take time to get to know my students - how they practice, why they pursue their instrument, what their goals are, and who they really are as people. What is it that they truly need right now? Is it a practice schedule, or just some gentle encouragement? A new song to freshen things up, or a tough lesson about persistence? A conversation about homework, or a story to lighten the mood and bring some laughter into the music? As an experienced teacher, I know how big of a difference it makes to really understand the needs of a student.

I work with beginner, intermediate, and advanced students of all ages. I have experience with all major string curricula, as well as my own conservatory-trained approach. I have taught over 100 students in ...

Beginners: posture, finger techniques, bow techniques, sound production, articulation, phrasing, note reading
Intermediate: interpretation of different styles, dynamics, ensemble performance, building solid technique and stamina
Advanced: studying of orchestra excerpts, solo pieces, study of various concert and chamber music compositions

I have been teaching strings for 25 years both in a studio/private setting and also as a middle school orchestra teacher for the past 20 years in the public school setting. I love working with students to help them learn the joy of playing the violin or viola! I am eager to work with you and look forward to the opportunity to help you learn or advance your skills on the violin or viola while having fun!