Spencer, OK Viola Lessons

eel successful. All technique is based on real music. Learning scales, keys and music theory become part of the music. By the end of 6 months, we will have a "repertoire" of several songs that express our best self!

find it rewarding working with beginners and the opportunity to show them the amazing world of listening, playing and making music.

The teaching begins with identifying student's musical needs, goals and tastes. Students are taught a stimulating, thorough, and graduated course of recital solos, theory, technical studies, and classic repertoire. For those wishing to pursue more of a classical approach to music, there are proven methods to accomplish that goal established by European master teachers and pedagogues. Also, I can teach the know-how of Jazz and Blues though gradual lessons that cover basic theory, scales and chords up to melody and harmony development.

*** Lesson Details ***
The learning process should be, for the most part, fun and based upon a strong relationship between the teacher and the student. Curriculum and lesson plans are based on student's abilities and aspirations with appropriate balance between theoretical and practical work. The lesson material is always carefully chosen, and when necessary, adapted to specific learning needs.

With a proper approach, everyone can learn to play music. Whether you want to pursue a music career, or just play for fun and enjoyment I can help you attain your goals. From basic piano and stringed instruments, to advanced theory, harmony, composition and improvisation to jazz, pop and rock.

Classes are not based on a single source or book. I provide other exercises in printed form for students to keep and take home.

*** Studio Equipment ***
Two high end digital keyboards, two violins, viola, cello, upright bass, bass guitar and amplifier, music stands, stereo equipment with a large CD collection of just any conceivable music style.. Assorted school instruments: recorder (soprano and tenor), xylophone. Various music charts and a large library of music resources and other books; Extensive e-library and ability to print any required material on the spot. Instant access to many on-line sheet music resources.

*** Travel Equipment ***
Full size and a school grade digital keyboards , bass guitar, amplifier, staff paper and other printed resources, violin, viola, spare parts, maintenance tools and equipment.

*** Specialties ***
Pop, Classical, Jazz, Ethnic and Modal music, Composition, Arranging, Harmony, Counterpoint, Advanced Music Theory

students' growth and abilities, and to provide an opportunity to give back to family and friends whose sacrifices and support enable the students to succeed.

I teach because I love music and I believe God has given me a gift. Playing and teaching help me to use my talent for His glory. I love working with people and I love how music enables people of all ages to open up and express themselves in a positive way, no matter what life throws their way. I believe music teaches discipline, builds self esteem; helps set and achieve goals; and positively affects and enhances other curricular endeavors.

My teaching philosophy is to always have fun while learning, to set attainable goals for the student, to learn through encouragement and discipline, and to help students come to love music on a personal level. I focus on the character of each student and their goals and desires to see that the student and/or parents are satisfied. Teaching is a privilege for me that I do not take for granted.

*** Lesson Details ***
I offer half hour, forty-five minute, sixty minute lessons, or longer on a weekly basis, but I do Not offer bi-weekly lessons. My lessons begin with the fundamentals of music. I believe a firm foundation in rhythm and reading is important because a student may switch musical instruments one day and the basics are universal and necessary. I have a deep love and appreciation for music which I hope to instill in my students as well. I am strict in the sense that I like students to polish their pieces before moving on. I like to keep them focused on playing well, not just playing.

A typical lesson will begin with scales to warm up, a review of the previous week's material, and a new assignment. Students will memorize pieces, be proficient in scales and rhythms, and all the while laughing and having a great time. I am known with my students for my creative analogies and flexibility to try new things in order to adapt to the students strengths and weaknesses. My students look forward to coming to their lesson, and that is very rewarding as a teacher.

I primarily use the Suzuki method for Violin and Viola, because it offers progressive steps to mastering technique, style, and musicality. My curriculum includes the use of Winning Rhythms, Wohlfahrt studies, All for Strings Theory, Essentials for Strings, and many more beginner and advanced studies; including shifting and double stops.

I love music and I love working with people; teaching is just icing on the cake. I look forward to helping you achieve your goals and discover your talents and I hope we can learn together. I look forward to meeting you!

*** Studio Equipment ***
Music Stand and Keyboard

*** Travel Equipment ***
I expect the student to have their instrument, and necessary accessories ie: rosin, shoulder rest, strings, books, and music stand.

*** Specialties ***
I teach Music on Violin, Viola, and Piano, as well as beginner cello. I am very creative in my teaching methods, though I use the Suzuki Method primarily for string instruments. I believe learning should be fun. I teach all the fundamentals of music from the beginning: counting rhythm, scales, reading music, theory.

n. I am an accomplished composer/songwriter with many published and recorded songs and instrumental works through ASCAP. I endeavor to make learning fun, and enjoy teaching students of all ages!

Online student requirements: A fast, reliable COMPUTER; HIGH SPEED INTERNET (at least 400 kbps); SKYPE software; WEBCAM (preferably HD); MICROPHONE (most laptops or tablets have mikes built in). Be sure your camera is focused on you and your instrument, if applicable.

d in the Spring of 2008. I learned how to write acoustic and electronic music as well as studio recording processes.

I worked for the Walt Disney Company through the College Program after which I became a campus representative on Disney's behalf. My performances with the Disney Company include: 1st Violin for the Encore Cast Choir and Orchestra at E.P.C.O.T. in July 2007 and as Mrs. Armstrong for S.T.A.G.E.'s 2007 Christmas Pageant, performed in E.P.C.O.T. December 13-16 in the Circle of Life Pavilion.

Since my return to Boulder in January 2008 I finished my Masters Degree in Music Composition and taught Ear Training and Theory of Music to Freshmen, and Ear Training to Sophomores at the University of Colorado at Boulder until May 2009.

I became a member of a six-person band, called Indigent Row, in 2008-2011 where I played fiddle and sang lead vocals. We performed throughout Colorado monthly.

I now reside in Denver, Colorado. I joined Buckstein (Modern Country Rock) in March 2015 and perform regularly each month all over Denver and sometimes out of state. We are also the house band for the internationally recognized Grizzly Rose performing 6 nights a week bi-monthly.

I currently teach beginning voice, all levels of violin and viola, sight-reading, theory of music, recording techniques, performance techniques, and song-writing. I am continuing to compose new music and collaborate with others as the opportunity arises. Some of my collaborations have been published and are available online. Please ask for details.

*** Lesson Details ***
Are you excited about learning a new instrument or learning to sing your heart out? Come and learn with me in a comfortable, friendly environment! I am patient and encouraging. I will help you set goals and meet them. And to help motivate you, I will schedule performances along the way so you can show off all of your hard work!

I can teach you violin, viola, voice, music composition, recording techniques and stage techniques! I am trained in numerous styles and can help tailor lessons to your passion.

Lessons will start with the basic building blocks, as any great musician needs to have a strong foundation in the basics. I can teach you how to read music as well as improvise if that is your desire. I feel it is essential to know how to play/sing by sight and will make this a strong focus throughout the initial lessons in addition to technique and posture. I will make sure you learn how to perform and practice without injuring yourself, as certain repetitive motions can cause long-term injuries if you are not practicing with proper posture and technique. My goal for you is to make this a fun journey.

Embrace your musical side and express yourself! Bring a positive attitude to your lessons and get ready to show off your stuff!

For string players, I like to combine Suzuki with traditional Russian style and progressive scales to build the foundation and then progress to the styles of your choosing. For vocalists, I focus on Solfeggio to learn scales and sight-singing techniques and then focus on exercises to build vocal range and control. At all levels of learning I will be sure to assign tunes to work on in addition to scales/exercises so that there will always be something fun to work on in addition to the rudiments.

Remember, this is supposed to be an enjoyable experience! Let me take you on your musical journey and give you the skills to express yourself through music. Choose me as your instructor and I will contact you within 48 hours to schedule your first lesson.

I look forward to seeing you on stage!

-Jennifer

*** Studio Equipment ***
In the space I will have music stands and an amplified electric keyboard. All students should bring their own water to each lesson. Violin/viola students must bring their own instruments complete with rosin, bow, cleaning cloth, and protective case.

*** Travel Equipment ***
All students must acquire their own music stand as soon as possible. I expect my students to have access to a piano or musical keyboard and purchase their own music books.
Violin and Viola students will need to have an instrument with shoulder rest, bow, and rosin. I highly recommend that all beginning string students purchase Suzuki Book 1.

*** Specialties ***
Electric Violin
Acoustic Violin
Vocal Performance
Five-String Violin Performance

My specialties include: Suzuki, Alexander Technique, traditional Russian Violin, Country Fiddling, Celtic Fiddling, Classical Violin, Classical Viola, Folk Singing, Traditional Irish, pop singing. Composition ranges from electronica, to experimental, folk, and electroacoustic pop.

*Teachers marked as a Student Favorite have taught a minimum of 25 lessons and have received the highest feedback rating from students.

. I continued through high school and into college, playing and singing with auditioned district ensembles, school musicals, and chamber choirs, coming in as runner up in my high school's concerto competition, and performing twice in Carnegie Hall. I studied opera, vocal pedagogy, and passed my piano proficiency exam from the advanced class.

In 2003, I earned my violin performance degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and soon after, joined the Kansas City-based Celtic folk group, Tullamore. I have enjoyed 13 seasons with this lauded regional group, playing countless esteemed Celtic festivals across the country and embarking on five international tours of Ireland and Scotland, as well as a Caribbean cruise hosted for our fans. Our sixth international tour is scheduled for 2019 in Scotland.

In 2014, I relocated to Hampton, Virginia, where I auditioned for the Hampton Roads Philharmonic, and currently play as a first violinist.

In 2015, I began playing with Brackish Water Jamboree, an award-winning Americana band, featured on NPR's Out of the Box series with Paul Shugrue, and host of the NorFOLK Festival.

Throughout this time, I have enjoyed teaching a full and enriching music studio of students: hosting recitals, open mics, and ensemble rehearsals, and watching students achieve goals they didn't know were even possible. I continue to teach online via Skype, FaceTime, and Google Hangouts, and I look forward to working with you to accomplish your own musical aspirations!

have been Catherine Van Hoesen of San Francisco Symphony, Ed Gazouleas of Boston Symphony, and Stephanie Sant’Ambrogio of The Cleveland Orchestra.

satisfaction comes from challenging my students comfort line and watching them grow professionally and artistically.

I currently play with four symphonies, chamber groups and substitute for other symphonies throughout Washington state. Because I have been through so many audition processes I feel as though I have excellent insight into the process. I would be able to assist my students in a process that can possibly be one of the most stressful events of their professional lives.

My string studies began at the age of age of eight with Jim O'Brian (served in Army orchestra). Following graduation from Kamiakin High School in 1998, I was accepted into the University of Iowa's school of music. However, I decided to stay close to home and study at Columbia Basin College. It was there that I met my next professor Robert Burroughs. My other university string professors included Maria Zlateva (graduated from University of Texas at Austin), Dr. Philip Baldwin, and Dr. John Marshall who is currently principal cellist of the Spokane Symphony.

My style of teaching is the Suzuki method or string basics. I was raised on the Suzuki method and have found that it provides an excellent foundation for string players. Many of my students have found this helpful with their technique and music theory. My youngest student participated in a talent show with their orchestra last year. Through her hard work and determination she was able to gain a substantial amount of information prior to entering junior high.

What sets me apart from other teachers is that I am strictly a viola instructor. Many viola teachers list themselves as violinists as well. I believe this has helped me because I understand the physical and mental challenges that "we" violists face on a daily basis. I feel privileged knowing that very few people can read alto clef and play such a beautiful instrument. If this sounds like something you would be interested in, don't hesitate to ask me a question.

To all my violists out there inspire yourselves from the greats; William Primrose, Yuri Bashmet, David Carpenter, and Nigel Kennedy.

Thanks for looking at my bio.
Happy playing :)