Damien G. received his Bachelor’s degree in Clarinet Performance from Loyola University New Orleans, his Master’s Degree from the University of North Texas, and is currently working on his DMA at the University of North Texas. As an undergrad at Loyola University, Damien toured as a clarinet soloist with the Loyola Chamber Orchestra in Yugoslavia, Hungary, and Vienna. He has been a member of the UNT Wind Symphony , under Eugene Corporan, and the UNT Orchestra, led by Anshel Brusilow. More recently, he has performed at two UNT concerto concerts as a soloist with the UNT chamber orchestra. Damien also has performed with the Contemporary Theater of Dallas along with other freelance activities in the DFW area. His teachers include: Mr. A. Crisanti,Dr. James Gillespie, Dr. John Scott, Steve Cohen, Daryl Coad, and John Reeks.

I've been teaching violin and string instruments for 10 years and my students have gone on to perform at everything from small recitals to with GDYO to as a member of TMEA All-State Orchestra. Within the first few lessons, you'll be able to hold the instrument properly and play 1-2 pieces rote (without reading music), and as time goes on you'll be able to read and write simple melodies that you can also play. I specialize in the Suzuki method, typically use Suzuki and Essential Elements books, and have the following tools available for your lessons: mirror, music stand, straws and other teaching tools. I love working with students of all ages and experience levels and I can't wait to meet you!

Whether you're a tiny tot where I use the Suzuki method, or high level amateur violinist, I can help you improve, expand your repertoire, and gain much pleasure from your hard work on this amazing instrument! My teaching experience covers over 3 decades. I am of a direct teaching lineage to the legendary Clara Schumann. My students have won competitions. To see my teaching style go to YouTube Stephanie Quinn Music and look for my masterclasses. If you follow my micro-management and practice directions, you will succeed in your goals!!

In teaching lessons, it is my great pleasure to share with students of all ages and skill levels the knowledge that I've gained over 27 years of playing. I firmly believe that anyone can learn anything at any time, given the proper tools! In our first lesson, we will determine your musical goals and create a realistic path to achieving them. It's my job to help you along this path while keeping things fun. To maintain focus and week-to-week continuity, I always provide lesson notes to take home. I can also provide recordings of lessons and transcriptions of pieces, if desired. **Studio Equipment** violins, viola, mandolin, recording equipment

Learn about rhythm, melody, harmony, and dynamics, and how they apply to the violin. Explore the range of your instrument through various scales. Build solid skills through understanding the mechanics of how your body and instrument work together.

I teach from the Suzuki and Essential Elements violin books. I have experience playing in high school, university, and community orchestras.

I teach Bluegrass, Country, Cajun, Celtic, Carnatic, Hindustani. ¡Hablo Español! I Teach All Ages, at All Levels: Songwriting, Music Theory, Composition Lessons, Arranging for Horns and Voice and Strings, Soloing, Improvisation, Classical Technique, Jazz, Blues, Rock, Latin, Funk, Country, Folk, and much much more! I have been a pro musician all my adult life, teaching thousands of students over a span of more than three decades! I am a published contributor to the #1 best-selling Jazz Theory book "Jazzology" (published by Hal Leonard - the world's largest music publisher), in addition to having almost 20 books published on the subject of theory and technique! I also have many many professional recordings to my credit that you can listen to online anytime! I am the author of the following books (available on Amazon): "Scales & Modes for the Violin Fingerboard" by Jeff Brent and Schell Barkley – 2012 For Violin, Viola, and Cello. Full-color. "Jazz Violin Arpeggios" by Jeff Brent and Schell Barkley – 2015 Jazz Arpeggios: Triads, 7ths, 9ths through 13ths – with all alterations. I use the Zoom app for live interactive lessons from the comfort of your home. You certainly have many options available regarding choosing an instructor, but I have to assume that you would like to hire the most qualified teacher to guide you on the journey through the wonderful world of music. Everyone moves further, much faster, and is more likely to stay engaged by learning from a master teacher with decades of real-world professional experience to share. I will give you what you need to know, in order to take you where you want to go!

Professional orchestral and chamber ensemble violinist and experienced teacher offering private instruction to students of all levels, from beginner to advanced. Whether you or your child are interested in picking up the violin for the first time or are an advanced violinist preparing for music conservatory auditions, I am happy to help.