Pittsburgh, PA Viola Lessons

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.

Many teachers who teach viola are primarily violinists, and are not as aware of the extra attention to detail and slightly different techniques that this instrument requires. Since I am primarily a violist, I can teach tone production, posture, and other techniques from the perspective of a player who has spent time learning the idiosyncrasies that make the difference between an excellent violist and a competent one.

My teaching style is inspired by my initial training in the Suzuki method, and my studies with violist and pedagogue Karen Ritscher at Oberlin Conservatory. Please note, I have not yet received training as a Suzuki teacher and use the Suzuki method books and the teaching I received as a Suzuki student as a jumping off point for working on each student's individual needs.

Viola may be the instrument everyone in the string section tells the most jokes about, but it's no laughing matter. Viola is one of the most expressive instruments out there. Learn to overcome its acoustic challenges and sing beautiful melodies or play your part confidently in an ensemble.

I am a fiddler and vocalist for internationally-touring and award-winning folk groups, Tullamore and Brackish Water Jamboree. In addition to my performance schedule, I am also honored to play first violin for the Hampton Roads Philharmonic. I run a thriving online teaching studio, which has been kicking since 2003, after earning my degree in violin performance from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Students describe me as patient, fun, and encouraging! As your teacher, you can expect me to work with you from where you are, and with subjects and curriculum that match what you are interested in learning. I teach traditional classical, using either Suzuki or Essential Elements, depending on your learning and self-motivational needs, and I also teach fiddle music, including Celtic, old-time, bluegrass, and alternative styles. **NEW STUDENT SPECIAL!** I have just shifted my studio to online only, I have limited studio times available (**PLEASE CHECK MY AVAILABILITY BEFORE SIGNING UP FOR ...

Experienced viola teacher with over 20 years available for eager students of all experience levels and ages! I structure my lessons so students learn what they want to learn, while also building a strong foundation of viola playing skills and technique. I specialize in Traditional Classical string music, typically use Essential Elements 2000, Samuel Applebaum methods, Suzuki books, and traditional scales and etude books. I have the following tools available to use during lessons: metronome, tuner, rosin and my music library.

My teaching addresses the fundamentals, including proper technique and developing musicianship. Some music theory is involved as well. From there, I tailor each lesson according to the individual student's needs, setting realistic goals. And, of course, I make sure that every lesson is fun!

I have been playing viola for 20+ years and I adore the sound and feel of the instrument. Playing viola has some unique challenges that make it just a bit more special than some of the other string instruments. I like tailor my lessons to the needs of each student. I like to focus on literature written specifically for the viola with some violin transcriptions. I strive to develop good musicianship, understanding of basic theory and good technique in both hands.

I started playing the viola when I was 8 years old. I started when I was in elementary school. From then on, I started learning the Suzuki Method and continued on into high school. I was a music performance major. I briefly went to University of Iowa, attended Eastern Washington University and Walla Walla University. Some of my teachers included Maria Zlateva, John Owen, Dr. Philip Baldwin and John Marshall. Unlike other players I have never played the violin so I understand the physical struggles that a violist deals with on a daily basis.

Caroline is trained and registered as a Suzuki viola and violin teacher through Book 4. With a background in both violin and viola, she is currently a master's student in viola performance at the Southern Methodist University, studying with Barbara Sudweeks. She completed her undergraduate work at the University of Michigan with Yizhak Schotten.