How to Practice Gossec Gavotte in Suzuki Violin or Viola Volume 1 for Ages 7-11

Dr. Ana Maria began her violin studies at the age of two and a half as a student of the Suzuki Method. She earned a Doctor of Musical Arts degree in violin performance at the University of Oklahoma, and a Master of Music degree in violin performance and violin Suzuki pedagogy as well as the Professional Studies Diploma from the Cleveland Institute of Music. Dr. Wilson graduated cum laude with dual degrees in international studies and violin performance from Bradley University. In 2003, she spent two months in Japan studying at the Talent Education Research Institute in Matsumoto, where she had the opportunity to work with Koji Toyoda. She has performed as a member of numerous orchestras and ensembles throughout the country such as the Tulsa Symphony, Oklahoma City Philharmonic, MacArthur String Quartet, Peoria Symphony Orchestra, Opera Illinois Orchestra, and the Peoria Bach Festival. 

Dr. Ana Maria has received registered training from the Suzuki Association of the Americas for Violin Volumes 1-8, Suzuki Principals in Action, and Violin Practicum. She is a firm believer in life-long learning, both professionally and individually. Because of this, she seeks to receive more education and training whenever possible.

She enjoys teaching topics such as non-instrumental "pre-Twinkle" classes for two to six-year-olds, all levels of violin and viola lessons, Suzuki group classes, chamber music, and audition preparation. She also enjoys teaching English and may someday teach classes relating to her international travels.

Dr. Ana Maria believes that so many life skills can be learned through the study of a musical instrument. Some of these include improved listening skills, a strong work ethic, critical thinking, following directions, long-term and short-term goal setting, organizational skills, confidence, performing in front of a public audience, time management, and accepting constructive criticism. 
She has a passion for making music fun and enjoyable for her students while teaching them life skills. She believes that excellence can be achieved in a positive and nurturing way. Her three years of online English teaching and her over twenty-five years of violin and viola teaching have served to complement each other.

She has traveled abroad extensively and enjoys learning about all aspects of culture, especially its language, music, and history. This interest led her to study abroad in Denmark, earn a bachelor's degree in international studies, travel and study the Suzuki Method for two months in Japan, and teach online English to Chinese children with VIPKid. Because she has many family members in Colombia, she is also fluent in Spanish.

Dr. Ana Maria really enjoys spending time with her sweet husband, her son who plays cello and Minecraft, and her daughter who loves to sing, and dance, and recently started piano lessons. Becoming a mother has enriched her education as a teacher, and being a teacher has helped make her a better mother.