Violin Lessons

Teaching Philosophy and Styles Taught

We have seen changes in how the violin is played and used in modern music throughout our lives. Being in an orchestra is only one outlet to perform in among many. While Classical Technique will be the foundation in our teaching, the style that will be produced is up to the student and his or her personality and interests.

In our music careers, we are performing in Orchestras, Jazz Ensembles, Rock Bands, Celtic/Fiddle groups, and String Trios and Quartets – performing in a wide variety of venues, large and small. We do not limit the student to just one style. Each student may prefer one style over the other, related to their personality. We do teach technique and ear training from classical instruction. Whichever road you would like to take, we have been in all of those situations, and will help you accomplish your goals with the violin.

Beginners – The Suzuki Violin Method

We incorporate the Suzuki Violin Method for ages 3 or 4 and up. Many aspects of the method include: mastering small steps which in turn encourages self-motivation, listening to the recordings of the songs being studied, creating a positive and nurturing learning environment at home and at the lessons for the child, and more. An entire article about the method and how we teach it can be found here.

Violin Technique

Technique for All Styles

Etudes and Scales are used to focus on one technique at a time, and then applied to a classical piece or other style if preferred. We try to balance technique with a supporting performance piece which we have seen produces solid results, not overwhelming the student but helps keep focus on one thing at a time.

Music Theory and Note Reading

We teach music theory along with lessons directly related to the violin to help give a well-rounded approach to the learning process. Even if the student doesn’t continue to learn the violin, they will have knowledge they can take to other instruments.

For Jazz, Fiddle/Celtic Students

Depending on the student’s interests, we teach music composition, arranging, and improvisation for those who want to perform in a band setting. There’s more of a focus on scales, arpeggios, and chord theory to help the student understand his or her role in the music group. Improvisation is taught with CD’s to play along with.

School Orchestra Instruction

We go to some of the Mount Pleasant Schools to aid in rehearsing with the orchestras – for students involved in their school orchestra, we will take some time to go over difficult sections of their orchestra pieces

SC All-State & Region Orchestra, and other Competitions

We both were heavily involved in the All-State and Region orchestra competitions as it is a unique chance to practice and perform with other talented musicians. We will help you through the audition process, showing you what to expect, working on pieces and etudes/scales. Another benefit is if you plan on majoring in Music in College, this would be a great topic to put on any letter or paper used as part of the admission process.

Performance Opportunities

Recitals

We hold a Spring Recital and Fall Recital for our students. The Suzuki violin students will play as a class together, performing a couple of beginner songs. For the intermediate and advanced students, they will have an accompanist to perform with (typically piano accompaniment).

Classical

Performing for a recital, weddings or for your school, we can help you show off the hard work you've put into the violin and have some fun with other students.

Bands (Bluegrass, Jazz, Rock etc)

Get on stage!  With the violin technique, music theory and ear-training, We can show you how to improvise with other instruments and make it musical, fun, cool, and even get paid for it. (Got to make a living right?)

The Gigging Musician

What to do to get ready for a gig – if it's in a concert hall, jazz club, local bar, or wedding, we’ll show you exactly what to expect, and how to prepare for each situation – We've been in all of them and can help make your situation easy and stress-free.