I have experience teaching students of all ages and levels. I teach practical violin skills in tandem with the theoretical knowledge a student needs to succeed.
My pedagogical training is from Indiana University's Summer Pedagogy Seminars run by world-renowned violin teacher Mimi Zweig. In addition, I completed the Suzuki Method's Every Child Can (ECC) course under the tutelage of Paule Barsalou.
THE SASSMANNSHAUS METHOD
I teach beginners from the four-volume book series, Early Start on the Violin. The original German violin method by Egon Sassmannshaus was first published in 1976 and has been used to teach over 500,000 children to date.
The English edition was adapted by his son Kurt Sassmannshaus, a Professor of Violin at the Cincinnati College-Conservatory. With songs familiar to North American audiences introduced in the first volume it is a fun and engaging method to learn from.
The method is supplemented by instructional videos recorded by Kurt Sassmannshaus at www.violinmasterclass.com and my own recordings found on my Youtube Channel.
FAQ
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AM I TOO YOUNG/OLD TO START LEARNING VIOLIN?
No. I work with students of all ages and levels. As long as you love music and want to learn then I will be happy to teach you!
I WANT TO START PLAYING, HOW SHOULD I GO ABOUT GETTING A VIOLIN?
I recommend going to a shop that specializes in string instruments. Bravura House is a great place for students to go looking for violins, bows, and all the other equipment you need to get started. If you need help finding the right instrument I would be happy to walk you through the process, free of charge.
MY CHILD WANTS TO START VIOLIN, HOW CAN I HELP THEM?
The Child-Parent-Teacher team is key to successful lessons. With young children, the parent is often the most important element of that equation. I recommend that a parent attend lessons with children aged 10 and under to take notes and help them with their daily practice.
HOW MUCH DO LESSONS COST?
My lesson rate is currently $60 per hour or $30 for half-hour lessons. I bill six weeks at a time and require payment before the first lesson in the billing cycle.
WHERE DO YOU TEACH?
Online and in-person all from my home studio. I am located in the Highgate Park neighborhood and have a space dedicated to my teaching. For parents not attending lessons, there is a seating area on our deck outside where you can relax and read a book while your child has their lesson.
CAN WE MEET YOU BEFORE WE SIGN UP FOR LESSONS?
Yes! I offer a free 30-minute Zoom consultation for those interested to answer any question you have about starting the violin. Please don't hesitate to reach out!
CONTACT
If you are interested in lessons please contact me to set up a free half-hour consultation. This will give me an opportunity to meet you, answer any questions you may have, and begin to develop a lesson plan specifically for you.
138 James Street, Kingston ON
647-523-5360