I absolutely cannot imagine life without the violin. I began playing the violin at age eight, and it is my greatest passion, not only to play, but to teach violin. If forced to select one, I would easily choose teaching over performing. My past music teachers instilled a strong foundation that included scales, exercises, and a solid performance repertoire. I also structure private lessons based on this premise of building a solid foundation which includes position, intonation, technique, and musicality, with the majority of my instruction comprised of classical music. Scales are the foundation of all music and are assigned on a weekly basis. Having spent the majority of my instructional time with Elizabeth Ivanoff Holborn, a student of the great Ivan Galamian, my teaching style is strongly influenced by their pedagogy. I incorporate some of the Suzuki repertoire for the newer violinist, but am a firm believer in teaching the student to read music from their very first lesson.

Music achieves so much more than the actual mastery of the music. It teaches discipline, commitment, concentration, self-confidence, a sense of accomplishment, pride, and an appreciation for the arts. Violin can also provide students with the opportunity to perform on a stage – something that many people never experience.

A typical lesson (depending on the level of the student) will consist of scales, shifting exercises, position studies, etudes, double-stops, duets, and solo work. I will provide assistance with school orchestra music and audition requirements when requested. Also incorporated throughout each lesson are sight reading, music theory, ear training, and viewing of skills videos. My goal is that each student will have a positive, fun experience and laugh several times during each lesson while still achieving their greatest potential. I work hard to create an ambiance that includes professionalism, respect, fun, enthusiasm, accountability, and productivity.