Good Technique = Good Playing
I love the violin. I think it is simply the most expressive and flexible instrument there is. No other instrument (besides the human voice) is found in as many folk and classical traditions. The range of sounds and rhythms that can be made by the violin is unmatched.
However, the violin can be a difficult instrument to learn. Bad habits are all too easy to develop and all too hard to get rid of. I have seen many fiddlers who are sadly limited in what they can play because they have developed bad habits. I promise that this will not happen to any of my students.
In order to play the violin well, you must have good technique. You must know how to place the instrument under your jaw, how to finger the strings, and most importantly, how to use the bow properly. I have found that the "Talent Education" or "Mother Tongue Technique" developed by Shinichi Suzuki has no equal in developing good violin technique.
Good Playing = Good Technique
Suzuki students are generally competent and confident performers, working well in ensemble and solo settings. However, I have also found that the Suzuki method alone can be somewhat restrictive once a student has gained a certain amount of proficiency. A Suzuki-only student will not learn about the fun and exciting world of traditional fiddle. This is why I have developed the "Classical Fiddle" method.
I teach students how to play the instrument through the Suzuki Classical Violin Method and its American cousin, the O'Connor Violin Method. Developed by America's preeminent fiddler, Mark O'Connor, this "New American School of String Playing" complements the Suzuki method by drawing on traditional American tunes for the teaching repertoire. Alongside Bach minuets, my students learn American classics like Amazing Grace, Buffalo Gals, and The Arkansas Traveler. I also add in a healthy dose of Celtic and Nordic tunes from my own playing
I strive to help the student discover the fire, hear the beauty, and understand the depth of the instrument. I have developed this method to make sure that students get that chance. Too often students give up on the violin before they recognize all it can do and how much fun it can be.
Suzuki and O'Connor Methods
Alongside the proven Suzuki Method, I teach the O'Connor Violin Method developed by America's preeminent fiddler, Mark O'Connor.