Orem, UT Viola Lessons

Hi, I'm Benjamin! Thank you for viewing my profile page. I am a professional violinist and violist with a Bachelor's and Master's Degree in performance from the Manhattan School of Music. I am Suzuki Registered and State Certified in both New Jersey and New York to teach in public schools grades K- 12. I have over 20 years of experience in the music industry. Whether you're a beginner looking to explore something new or an advanced player looking to prepare for an audition, I am happy to help!

beginner to intermediate

The student will be instructed on the basics of proper playing techniques, music theory, and musicianship. They will learn to read music and also play by ear which will make them a well rounded player.

I started viola 4 years ago in order to expand opportunities and get to know more about this amazing instrument, but I began teaching about 1 year ago. I am comfortable teaching beginners to advanced students, and incorporate basic music theory, note reading, and any other skills a student may require based on their skill level.

Students will learn to play the Viola using a variety of methods.

A private Viola instructor for almost 15 years, my students have gone on to participate in prestigious Youth Symphonies, and festival orchestras at the Regional and All-State levels. I focus on building a strong foundation of bow and left hand technique, with students participating in selecting repertoire they enjoy for auditions, talent shows, or just for fun! I specialize in classical, but have worked in multiple styles, and utilize a variety of books for scales, exercises, and solo pieces.

Students can expect a relaxed, fun, and encouraging atmosphere for learning. The violin 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.

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 students can expect:

Beginners:

- Learn how to read music
- Learn proper playing technique
- Meet personal goals
- Learn new material and scales

Intermediate/Advanced:

- Learning and/or perfecting proper technique
- Learning material commensurate with experience
- Working together to reach individual goals
- Learning how to improvise
- Preparing ...

My goal is to help you progress in your studies of the Viola. I do not expect to have any studio recitals, but I would love to help prepare you for any performances, orchestral or solo, that you have coming up. I am open to your repertoire choices if you have something you are itching to play (I know I have my own bucket list). If needed, I can also make suggestions for repertoire based on your current skill level. As for my history and aspirations for the Viola; I have been studying with Dr. Mark Neumann for four years. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Viola Performance from the University of Oklahoma in 2017, and am currently working towards my Masters Degree in Viola Performance at the University of Oklahoma. I hope to receive my Doctor of Musical Arts in the future.