I believe that with enough work and the right teacher, students can accomplish their goals. In my teaching, I try to incorporate styles and pieces that students enjoys along side standard violin repertoire, études, and technique books. I encourage all students to explore the genres and styles of music that excite them most.

As the repertoire grows more complex, I introduce musical forms and theoretical structure. I believe that a background of music theory gives students a better understanding of music as a whole, which improves their understanding of violin repertoire. I also believe that students need different types of performance opportunities. I encourage students to play in orchestras, chamber ensembles, and solo recitals to gain experience performing and to achieve the feeling of accomplishment that accompanies a successful performance.

I strive to create a lesson environment where the student feels comfortable experimenting with musical ideas and where a student feels free to ask questions. Additionally, I try to use analogies and practice games, depending on the student’s age and level, that incorporate something from another hobby or interest. This helps keep the student interested in lessons and it links music with other areas of life. I believe that students who are encouraged to learn and are actively guided to achieve goals will stay engaged in lessons and experience the benefits of playing a musical instrument, including learning a new skill and developing discipline and focus. These goals shift with each student, based on the individual reasons each student has for studying music. The student and I periodically check in on these goals, which helps the student acknowledge progress over time. My hope is that as students progress, they will develop a deep love for music as I have.