Teaching studio
VIOLIN & FIDDLE LESSONS
Offering in-person lessons in
Boise, ID & Billings, MT*
Somewhere else in the world?
Online lessons available.
*Availability:
3 weeks/month in Boise
1 week/month in Billings
Are you… ?
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Becoming a better violinist is a life long endeavor. If you’re feeling stagnant, sometimes you just need an extra push or accountability. I’m here to help you with your part in community orchestra, learn more tunes for the next jam session, or any other goals. I love working with adults!
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You’re never too old to learn violin or fiddle! I love working with adults, even if you’re a complete beginner. I’ll get you setup and on your way!
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Maybe you’re struggling to play faster, produce good tone, or stiff and hurting? We’ll dive into some fundamentals and find the root of your issues. Together, we’ll work on whatever you feel is holder you back!
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Awesome! Let’s explore your creative side. You may think playing tunes is easy, but we’ll explore how to authentically play in a new style. Check out my bio to learn about my fiddle upbringing.
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As someone who has a bachelors and masters in violin performance, I know what it takes to pursue music in college. Expectations are extremely high, but if you’re fully committed to music, I’ll help you get there!
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Need help with an orchestra audition? Want some good fingerings for your next orchestra concert? Let’s chat about what you’re looking for and how I can help!
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Being thrown into an orchestra class with a bunch of other kids and one teacher can be overwhelming. If your child has a head start learning proper technique, lessons will help greatly in reducing the formation of bad habits and making sure your child feels successful.
WHAT I TEACH
My teaching methods are tailored to every student’s interests and preferences, from learning Celtic tunes to polishing standard classical concertos. However, I always place a strong emphasis on technique. My approach highlights how we can learn from our natural instincts to ensure a healthy, tension free relationship to the physical instrument. And practicing fundamentals (shifting, scales, vibrato, etc), no matter how many prior years of experience, is crucial to building or maintaining the freedom to play anything your heart desires. I’m a certified O’Connor Method teacher, but I also use Suzuki and many other etude books to create a customized curriculum. In the end, I want my students to become proficient with violin, while also making it fun and rewarding.
D.C. Dounis – “The player should always have in mind that technique is only a means to an important end. That end is “music”, he must always make music. … It is only through this manner of practicing that, later on, when performing a composition he can feel technically free so that the phrasing, which is the all important element in musical interpretation, will not be affected or conditioned by deficiencies of technique or technical mannerisms.”
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
Commitment – Becoming proficient with violin requires dedication and serious effort, and lessons alone are never enough. Mindful practice at home is essential for significant progress. My studio is intended for students who have the time and interest to make this commitment, and can practice at least 5 days a week (even for just 15-30min/day).
Flexibility – As an active traveling performer, my availability will be different every month. I also assume there will be times when the student cannot come to a scheduled lesson, or hasn’t had time to prepare. I’m open to rescheduling because it’s important that every lesson be productive. Fulfilling a certain number of lessons per month isn’t required, as long as the student is motivated and making good progress.
Communication – I’m willing to accommodate a student’s needs as long as they’re open and honest with me. This applies to practice time, scheduling, lesson plans, and payment.
RATES
30 minutes – $40
45 minutes – $55
60 minutes – $70
Payment is per week. No tuition. Monthly prepay optional.
Frequently asked questions
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There’s no physical difference between a violin and fiddle. It’s the same instrument. The name is associated with which genre of music you play. Classical & jazz = violin. Bluegrass, old-time, Celtic, etc. = fiddle
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My studio is located in the Central Bench area.
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I’m generally in Billings about 1 week every month. If you’re hoping for in-person lessons, we can cram more than one lesson in a week if possible. I teach at Rocky Mountain College.
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Lesson length is decided by student/parents, but here are my general recommendations:
Ages 12 and under OR a complete beginner at any age: 30 minutes
Middle school: 45 minutes
High school/adult: 60 minutesOf course, there are many exceptions to these guidelines. And lesson length can be changed at anytime (pending scheduling).
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Yes, I’m flexible!
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You’re never too old to learn! If you love music and want to exercise your brain and challenge yourself, learning violin might be a great new hobby!
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I do not provide violins, so you will need to acquire an instrument. If you’re unsure about your commitment level, I’d recommend renting from a local music store. Whether you’d like to buy or rent, please ask for my recommendations. Acquiring a well setup instrument is critical for success. There are many “violin shaped objects” out there you need to avoid.
Interested in joining my studio?
Currently accepting new students!
Please answer the following questions in your message:
Prior involvement in music (violin or otherwise)?
Who? Yourself, child (what age)?
Reason for seeking out violin lessons
Interested in a “meet and greet” or diving right in? (See below)
Look forward to hearing from you!
Initial lesson
The first lesson will follow my rates (listed above). Although there will be some preliminary discussion, I like to dive right in. If I decide the student is not a good fit for my studio, a full refund will be provided.
An optional free 30 minute “meet and greet” is also available. This would take place at a local coffee shop or the like, with no instruments. This is just an opportunity to talk about goals and answer any questions, and to get to know each other. The first lesson (and the above policy) would then follow.
