Viola Lessons in Portland. Amazing Teachers.

Hello! I am offering beginning to advanced lessons for students of all ages (age 3 through adult). The methodology that I teach is directly from Oberlin and New England Conservatories. My teaching philosophy is to self motivate students through fun and a positive learning environment. I have over 10 years of teaching experience and have taught in a variety of settings across the US and Taiwan.

I teach from beginner to intermediate Viola, I am also very open to teaching other kinds of music the student wants to learn

Hi! My name is Leah, and I love to teach music! My specialties are string orchestra instruments, including violin, which I have been playing since I was five years old, viola, cello, and upright bass. I am currently finishing my degree in Music Education at Temple University, with a violin concentration. I have performed violin, viola, cello, bass, piano, trumpet, saxophone, clarinet, and percussion, as well as singing, in community ensembles. I have worked successfully with beginners all the way up to advanced musicians who are preparing for competitive auditions. I am passionate about teaching technique, musicianship skills, and repertoire in a way that is fun but also highly effective. I look forward to working with you!!!!!!!!
All clearances are up to date.

Students can expect a relaxed, fun, and encouraging atmosphere for learning. The viola can be an intimidating instrument- you will make a lot of unpleasant sounds before you start sounding great- and that's okay! I'll be there to guide you and help you reach your goals.

If you're already an experience player, you can expect me "workshopping" your technique. We will analyze your form, practice patterns, and playing style, to ensure that you are growing and improving from the moment we begin. I will push you to become the most expressive player that you can become, but at a pace that feels comfortable for you.

What young students can expect:

- Preparing for entry into school orchestra
- Polishing up school orchestra repertoire
- Learning new material and scales
- Perfecting their technique
- Preparing for NYSSMA
- Preparing college audition tapes (I do have the ability to record these as well)
- Learning to play with confidence
- Learning vibrato

What adult ...

*Due to limited availability, please contact me to discuss any goals prior to booking.

** Weekly lessons only.

Experienced teacher, teaching for 20 years at universities as well as beginner and intermediate students. Building a strong foundation and cultivating musical expression, I have successfully prepared students for auditions and helped them pursue their goals. Lessons are customized to the needs of each student. All ages and levels, professional or for fun are welcome!

I love teaching violin and viola, and have been doing it for over 10 years. I believe private lessons are an essential component to successful musical development and growth. It is my hope that my students develop the tools they need to become independent musicians. I strive to create an atmosphere that fosters not only growth in technique, but in character, personal discipline, and a long-term appreciation for music.

I am an active performer, and play violin and viola with the Atlanta Ballet and Atlanta Pops Orchestras, among others. I hold a dual-Masters degree (MM/MA) in Violin Performance and String Pedagogy from Ohio State, a Graduate Performance Diploma from the Longy School of Music, and a Bachelors in Music Education from the University of Georgia.