Violin Viola Fiddle Cello

Teaching is about creating a trusting relationship that allows a transfer of knowledge. As an active listener and empathetic person, I encourage my students’ development through a natural organic process. My approach varies depending upon the student’s needs. Strong technical foundation, beautiful sound, and expressive music-making are a constant focus.

With young children I teach through play, introducing new skills and nurturing a natural love of music. For elementary school students, I emphasize good posture and positions as the columns that support string instrument technique. I have have combined the American Suzuki Method and the American Fiddle Method by Brian Wicklund in my teaching for well over 20 years.

Older and advancing students prepare for specific goals such as competitions and auditions. My students have gained entrance to Oberlin, University of Montana, MSU, Eastman School of Music, BYU as well as many All-State and Civic Youth Orchestras. My former student Katie McNally is now an internationally recognized Scottish fiddler.

Adult students require a different approach. Some are returning to an instrument after years away and others are complete beginners. I have taught students who were well into their senior years. My work here is listening to the individual and facilitating what they want from the lesson experience.

Irish and Celtic fiddling is traditionally taught using the traditional aural method. My students learn by rote and repetition and are supported by attending sessions and festivals.