While I do use the Suzuki books, I prefer to teach a slightly modified Suzuki method. I like to play it by ear (no pun intended....ok, maybe just a little!) for when the student should begin learning their notes and stop playing by ear. Just like how children pick up their native languages differently, some start early, others a little later, it is a similar “not one size fits all” approach to ear training and learning notes. Most of my students have learned their notes by the end of book 1, but some others by book 2 depending on a variety of factors.

For both children and older students I like to teach note reading in ways that are both fun and unique to how they learn. While some students prefer plain old flash cards, others like to use phone apps or various game drills to help them learn notes. Once they established a solid note reading basis, I then teach them how to read and play the notes in their Suzuki pieces; slowly weening them off of playing just by ear.

Absolutely not! I have successfully taught violin to adult students of all ages and musical backgrounds. Whether you want to learn Christmas songs to impress your relatives, play in your local band, or simply play for your own enjoyment, with regular lessons I can help you achieve your goal of playing the violin.

My goal is to help students that need additional guidance with All-State audition preparation outside of their primary violin lessons. By purchasing my All-State lesson package you will receive six one hour private lessons on all of the audition material along with PDFs of my fingerings and bowings; most of which are used by the concertmasters of the Dallas Symphony and LA Philharmonic. PLUS you’ll also have access to recordings of me playing the audition material.