What's included
Meets on Demand
schedule meetings as needed60 mins
per sessionTeacher support
Homework
4+ hours per week. Students are expected to practice daily between weekly lessons. Practice sessions should mirror the lesson format; beginning with a scale or warm-up, and then working on the pieces. Students should aim to practice at least 60-90 minutes per day. Ultimately, quality is better than quantity. If your child only has the time or focus to practice 30 minutes consistently every day, that's better than practicing 90 minutes every second or third day. I do not require students to submit practice journals or enforce practice time in any way.Assessment
There will be no formal exams or written assessments, but students will receive verbal feedback throughout the duration of the lesson. Students should keep this feedback in mind during their individual practice sessions.Class Experience
Intermediate - Advanced Level
In this 1-on-1 class, students will receive advanced private instruction on the viola through weekly one-hour lessons. This class is ideal for students who are preparing for RCM exams, auditions for honour orchestras, summer programs, university/college entrance, or anyone looking for more of a challenge in their musical studies. If you're not sure if this class is right for your child, please feel free to reach out. Alternatively, you can sign up for my other course, "1-on-1 Viola Lessons With a Symphony Musician" which has 30-minute lesson times. From there, we can decide when it's time to increase your child's lesson time to one hour. The lesson format will vary slightly from student to student, but will typically begin with a scale or warm-up exercise. From there, we will work on a solo piece for the remainder of the lesson. There will be a strong emphasis on technique and scales in this class, so be prepared to purchase scale and etude books. Families may also be required to purchase additional sheet music for solo repertoire. The specifics will vary from student to student. Like beginner students, I will highly encourage advanced students to watch and listen to YouTube recordings of the pieces they are currently studying as part of their daily practice routine. I will also welcome students who are looking to take only a few lessons to prepare for an audition, concert, or competition. In these situations, I will focus on dynamics, phrasing, intonation, rhythmic accuracy, and sound production to elevate the overall performance quality. I will also give concrete practice strategies and suggestions for continued work after the lessons are completed. In my lessons, I encourage students of all ages and levels to be analytical and learn how to be their own teacher. An hour-long lesson goes by in the blink of an eye, so effective practice sessions are essential to retaining the skills taught during lessons. Please note that in order for me to properly assess a student's viola technique, they will need to keep their camera on for the duration of the lesson. Students do not need to show their face beyond the initial check-in and verification, but their instrument, bow, and hands should be clearly visible in the frame. I currently have minimum notice for bookings set for 4 days in advance. If you would like to have lessons sooner than that, please message me. *NOTE: If you schedule lessons on Wednesdays or Thursdays, I may occasionally have a symphony rehearsal during your lesson time. I know these specific dates ahead of time and already have them blocked off on my calendar so you will not be scheduled or charged for lessons on these dates. I will also give a heads up at least one week in advance so you can plan accordingly. Rescheduling lessons may be possible on these symphony weeks, but NOT guaranteed.
Learning Goals
Students will take their viola playing to the next level through advanced solo repertoire and technical exercises.
Other Details
Parental Guidance
Students will be asked to watch video recordings of the pieces they are learning on YouTube, both during class and as part of their practicing routine. No YouTube account will be required to access these videos. Please supervise your child when watching the YouTube videos as I cannot guarantee the content that may show up in the ads or recommended video feeds.
Pre-Requisites
Learners should play at a minimum Suzuki Book 4 or RCM Grade 5 level. At least four years of prior private instruction or playing experience is recommended.
Supply List
*All prices are my best estimates in CAD* -A viola in good working condition. I recommend purchasing or renting an instrument from a local music store or online through a reputable music store, if your financial situation allows. Instruments from places like Walmart or Amazon cannot be guaranteed for quality and aren't suitable for regular practice. A good quality student viola will vary in price, but expect to spend upwards of $550. -A music stand ($20-$50) -A tuner and metronome. You can purchase a physical one ($20-$45) or download a smartphone/tablet app (Free with possible paid features). The exact etude books we'll use will vary from student to student, but these are the standards that everyone should own: -Kreutzer 42 Studies: Transcribed for Viola ($15-$20) -Schradieck: School of Violin Technics, Op. 1 – Book 1 Transcribed for the Viola ($15-$20) -Be prepared to purchase additional etude books and sheet music.
2 files available upon enrollment
Teacher expertise and credentials
I've had a private teaching studio since Fall 2020 and did a practicum at an after-school music program during my master's degree. In that time, I have worked with many students of various ages and levels on both the violin and the viola. I am also a professional violist in a symphony orchestra.
Reviews
Live 1-on-1 Lessons
$64
per sessionMeets on demand
60 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18