Christina believes that learning an instrument is one way to approach some of life’s most important lessons. She hopes that working week by week on small goals, we’ll encounter some truths:

• Worthwhile goals take time and hard work

• Self-expression is universal

• Learning the ‘why’ of guidelines helps you apply them in meaningful ways

• One’s body and personhood have great dignity and power; performing is a way of learning to use them effectively

Christina’s nearly 20 years of diverse teaching experience, from private violin/viola teaching to teaching American History in public high school to stepping in for short stints as a masters rowing coach, have deeply informed her teaching philosophy. At the heart of it is the recognition that learning requires structure, yet structures are not one-size-fits-all. Christina works with the student to create practice plans and goals that work for them.

Content of Lessons

Depending on the age of the student, the content of the lessons will vary. For student 21+ , a one hour lesson may cover Alexander Technique, a short dive into global events at the time of the composition, and hard work with a tuner or metronome. For a younger musician, there may be exercises connecting musical notation to motion, games teaching pitch and rhythm, or guided practice teaching learning techniques to bring home. What you will always receive are clear goals for your next lesson, a roadmap for accomplishing them, and open lines of communication to unblock you during your week of work.

Example Structure of a 60 minute Lesson

1:00 - 1:05 Update on the week, open and prepare your violin, tune

1:05 - 1:10 Scales and technique refreshers

1:10 - 1:25 Etudes and slow work

1:25 - 1:45 Concerto, solo piece, music for the week

1:45 - 1:55 Extra music ~ orchestra, band, personal projects

1:55 - 2:00 Setting goals for next week, updating notebook

Click below to book your trial lesson today!