What should I bring to my lesson?

For all lessons, please bring your music books, a lesson notebook, instrument and accessories (if taking violin), and a practice journal or calendar.

Before your first lesson, please fill out and bring the First Lesson Interview and Cancellation Policy at the bottom of the Resources section.

Do I have to practice?

Yes! Even professionals have practice. We will plan how much you need to practice in the lesson and talk about ways to make it easy.

What if I need to cancel or reschedule the lesson?

Please contact me over phone or email to let me know. I'll do whatever I can to work around your schedule but cannot guarantee another opening. I do have a cancellation policy at the bottom of the Resources page so please read it carefully.

Where should I buy a violin?

There are many different sizes of violins. It is best to be measured at a violin shop to make sure you are getting one the right size. The wrong size can make learning much more difficult and cause pain. In addition, I would recommend renting a violin if you are still growing and using smaller sizes.

Please do not buy violins from most online sellers, guitar shops, etc. The violins sold by these companies usually have major issues that make the violin unplayable and are often unrepairable.

If you find a violin on a website that you would like information or an opinion on, I will be glad to help even if you are not taking lessons with me.

Can I use my grandmother's violin?

If your grandmother's violin is the right size, a violin shop can check that it is in good condition and we can definitely use it.

Do I need a piano at home to practice on?

Yes! You need an instrument to practice on at home. It does not matter if it is a piano or a keyboard as long as there are at least 5 octaves.

What if I don't like the music I'm supposed to practice?

Keep practicing! If you don't like it, talk with me and we will make a goal for that piece (usually just the main point of learning for that piece like the counting) and then move on to one that you will definitely like.

My arm is broken. Can I still take lessons?

Yes. Please let me know ahead of time so I can plan a fun lessons that focuses on things you can still do. Usually we will have lessons that focus on games with counting, music theory, music history, learning the meanings of different music symbols, etc.

How long will it take me to be a good violinist or pianist?

I don't have an exact answer for you because you are unique! Everyone learns at a different pace and it really depends on your definition what is a good musician. You will be improving every time you practice and should be proud of the progress you are making! You are making much more improvement than anyone who isn't trying.

Because of this learning curve, I do not have goals for students after 3 or 6 months. Learning an instrument is more of a journey than a race and I want each student to learn to the best of their ability without feeling the pressure to learn faster or held back.