Violin with Jackson B.

I am a multifaceted violinist who loves to inspire, inform, and train the next generation of violinists. The 21st-century violinist has to prepare for a musical landscape that is constantly shifting and dazzlingly diverse. Alongside a rigorous training in violin technique, era-specific styles, and tension-free playing, I aim to give students the skills to think creatively, critically, and compassionately in a world that discourages such thinking. I have been teaching violin for four years, and as a master's student, I have finally developed a pedagogy that fits my values and vision. Starting with the basics, giving a student the right set-up between their instrument and body is quintessential to healthy and organic playing—this will develop over time. Aside from set-up, I like to get peoples' ears working early. Starting with the Suzuki method books and ear-based learning, students learn intonation, sound quality, articulation, bow technique, and musicality in a holistic way. Once students have developed a musical brain, I begin to teach advanced concepts like shifting, double-stops, and virtuosity. At this point, as well, I will begin delving into more abstract concepts including history, music theory (and notation), and how music interacts with culture and society. As a performer, I have presented three solo recitals in Indiana and Colorado, I have appeared as a soloist with the DePauw Symphony Orchestra playing Shostakovich's First Violin Concerto, I play with the Boulder Symphony, I have traveled to London, Vienna, and Northern Italy to learn and perform, and have played in many masterclasses with distinguished artists. I specialize in contemporary music, being a composer myself, and also have extensive experience as a vocalist and a keyboardist. I perform with Boulder's own Ars Nova Singers as well as the St. John's Episcopal Choir. I bring a unique and passionate approach to playing the violin. I want my students to discover themselves as musicians just as I want to discover what every new student can bring to their music. If a student doesn't want to discover their inner-musician, I will try every avenue to take down those barriers and inspire them to forge a life-long relationship with music.