Private lessons with top Violin instructors near Vienna, VA

I love learning new instruments, and I hope to get you excited about it too! As a first-self-taught and then-formally-trained person, I understand both points of view when teaching and learning music. I believe theory and technique are important, but the joy of playing a lot of different pieces is essential too. What can you expect from lessons? We will start by learning the basics of music theory (this will depend on your music background and how familiar you are with the topic), how to properly hold your instrument, and playing your first pizzicato notes (without a bow). We will then learn how notes work in the violin, finger positions, bowing, and playing our first pieces. We will look at a new piece every class, so that we keep things interesting and move forward in our studies. I believe that the most important thing when playing any instrument is to communicate and have something to say. One can play notes perfectly without saying much, and I want to share with you how you can express yourself through music. This is a big part of performing, and I also think it adds meaning to our practice. In terms of books and resources, I like using the Suzuki Violin method, the Maia Bang method and the Essential Elements for Strings. One thing I really like about Suzuki pieces is that piano accompaniments are available for free online, so it is really fun to play along with those to practice.

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

I teach from the earliest beginner through adult. My violin students are currently performing for different schools and ensembles. When students are performing with orchestras, much time is spent working on that music as well as their regular music.

1) Read Music 2) Instrument maintenance 3) Left hand techniques 4) Right hand techniques 5) Release Unnecessary Tension 6) Prepare for Auditions & Concerts.