Viola with Mary V.

Lesson Format 30m lesson: Scales Sight-Reading Repertoire (Pieces) 45m lesson: Scales Sight-Reading Etudes Repertoire (Pieces) 60m lesson: Scales Finger Exercises Etudes Sight Reading Repertoire (Smaller Pieces) Concerto Recommendations: Beginners: One 30m session per week Enthusiastic Beginner: Two 30m sessions per week Intermediate Student: One 45m session per week Advanced/Experienced Beginners: One 45m session per week Intermediate-Advanced: One 60m session per week Clarification about level (please read to assess yourself) Beginner: No experience, interested in trying it out and seeing if it's for them Enthusiastic Beginner: No experience, motivated to improve Intermediate Student and/or Advanced Experienced Beginner Students: Students who have either already taken lessons, or perhaps are students enrolled in school programs in orchestra who have experience playing and want to add to their playing Intermediate-Advanced: Experienced with lessons and technical work, looking to move forward About me as a teacher: I have extensive experience as an orchestra teacher as well as a player, and I am talented at keeping beginners motivated and interested during their earlier phases (Beginner-Intermediate). As a strings teacher, my orchestras always had large numbers and enthusiastic attendance, which is a testament to my effect on younger children and teens. (Crucially, I of course had time to build a rapport with them). String instruments are tough to master and it’s essential to have a teacher who makes the lessons fun, motivating and interesting - especially during such a momentous phase. If students hope to make the advanced phase of playing, it’s imperative that they make it through these first 4-5 years (which is a long haul) without terrible habits and solid reading. Although I am an opera singer now, but I was actually a violin major in college and was playing professionally at an advanced level, performing in lots of orchestras and chamber ensembles. I have maintained my playing, as I enjoy it a lot, and I often play with friends. I would go as far as to say that mastering more than one instrument has proven to be invaluable for my musicianship (this is hardly a controversial opinion, as it will no doubt be corroborrated by anyone possessing the same skills). Who I'm good for: I’m an excellent teacher for children and teens who are playing in orchestra and need to elevate their playing. Supportive parents are a necessity. I’m also an excellent teacher for adult beginners who want to work with very direct feedback and improve their reading skills. Who I am not good for: Students who will not practice. Students who are not either self directed or supported by parents in ensuring practice is done. People who may be slightly sensitive to direct feedback People who are not yet ready to be confronted with direct feedback.