Violin & Viola Lessons

I teach at my home studio in North Raleigh near Optimist Park.

Most students have a weekly individual lesson.

During lessons, students are encouraged to explore their own creativity through the process of learning to play their instrument. I guide students through every step of the process drawing on my experience across a wide range of methods, including the Suzuki Method, El Sistema training, and more.

Following the Suzuki philosophy, I start with learning to play by ear and gradually incorporate note reading once the fundamentals and basic skills are in place. *Students participating in school orchestra often need to develop music reading skills sooner, and I tailor lessons to fit the needs of each student.

In some cases, particularly for adults, we may choose to have lessons every other week and work on a wide range of music.

Bring your instrument if you have one. If you don’t have an instrument yet and you are a beginner, you do not have to have an instrument for the introductory lesson. We will determine the correct size together.

For very young beginners (4-6 year olds), I am the teacher one day of the week, and you encourage your child's practice throughout the week! You do not need any prior musical training. By being present and engaged in each lesson, you will acquire all the tools you need to help your child with their home practice.

Once your child develops good practice habits and has a strong foundation, we will consult to determine the level of parental involvement that works best for you and your child.

The Suzuki Method is a popular method for learning to play violin. Here are a few bullet points:

It's a progression of 10 books, starting with Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star in book 1 and ending with a Mozart Violin Concerto in book 10. Students learn the same songs in order and so can play the same music together, sometimes in groups.

In the beginning, students learn to play by ear. Note reading is incorporated once fundamentals are in place.

Parental involvement is strongly encouraged - often a parent comes to each lesson and helps with home practice.

Suzuki Teachers are trained in teaching each book and register training with the national organization.

Here's a link to the official Suzuki Association's description.

Traditional Lessons

There's no set curriculum. It draws from lots of different methods/genres of music.

Parent is typically not in the lesson (but is always welcome).

Broad range of music - not a standardized method.

Ex: Great for adult students wanting to learn specific songs/students working on school orchestra music.

I am a registered Suzuki Teacher, but I incorporate lots of material in lessons and really tailor lessons to the needs of each student and family. My primary goal is for students to have a positive musical experience and learn to play violin. There is no difference in rates, lesson length, etc. During your introductory lesson, we will determine what will work best (often it's a mix).

Lessons are billed monthly. Assuming 4 lessons per month, rates are:

• ½ hour $160/month

• ¾ hour $240/month

• 1 hour $320/month

Introductory lessons are complimentary.