Neuroscientists confirm that playing music enhances the communication between the left and right hemispheres of the brain, which can help a child by increasing proficiency in fine motor skills, memory, and reasoning, the effects of which reach far beyond just playing an instrument. Music creates a beautiful avenue for the child to grow in both logic and creativity all at once. 

I believe, as Dr. Suzuki taught, every child CAN learn to play the violin beautifully, and that early exposure to music is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child. Through a playful but careful approach to learning, I create a clear long-term vision for my students and provide them with step-by-step instruction that nurtures a feeling of success in each lesson. In my studio I strive to maintain a positive, fun atmosphere, while we work through the difficulties of mastering technique. 

Known as the "mother tongue method," the Suzuki Method is based on the premise that just as every child learns to speak the language of their parents by listening and imitating, every child can learn to play music by listening and imitating beautiful playing in the same way. Just as we all learned to speak before we could read, my students are taught how to create a beautiful sound from the very beginning, long before they are reading music. This is a gift to the students and the parents!

In addition to teaching children the language of music, I teach each family how to create a beautiful musical environment in their home. Just as innovative educators have discovered that immersion schools are the most successful way to absorb another language, a child will learn the language of music best when immersed in their own musical home environment. Through a few simple changes in habit, your family can become a musical family - no previous experience required!

My studio is built on the concept of the “Suzuki Triangle,” an equilateral triangle, with parent, student, and teacher in each of the corners. Parents are involved in lessons, often learning to play alongside their child in the beginning, in order to understand how to help their child at home. Teacher and parent work to create an enjoyable learning environment together. 

Building on the foundation of engaging private lessons and a playful practice environment, students can then find the joy of making music together with others. Years of private teaching experience has taught me that private lessons alone are not enough to sustain a child’s interest. No one enjoys practicing without the opportunity to share what they have learned. Performing and making music with their peers are both essential to nurture the whole child. 

Therefore my studio is based on three essentials:

1. A weekly private lesson

2. Twice monthly group classes

3. Regular performance opportunities

My studio runs ten months a year, leaving the summer months for students to enjoy summer music camps, traveling with their families, or simply resting from all of their hard work!

Beginning violin lessons can feel overwhelming at first. But I promise you can do this. Take a deep breath and follow my easy checklist designed to give you everything you need in order to get started.