From the moment I decided to chase my dream of joining a professional orchestra, I knew that devoting my life to teaching would ultimately be my true calling. Passing on knowledge to the next generation - it's a timeless tradition that I'm honored to participate in and take very seriously. I'm keenly aware of the immense influence that my teachers had on me, and I similarly strive to be a force for good for all of my students.

As a professional musician, people often express to me a lack of confidence in their musical intelligence. It stems from a belief that musical ability is something gained only through rigorous, formalized training. It's not true. Learning how to play an instrument certainly requires a lot of time and effort, but understanding, appreciating, and loving music does not. I firmly believe that all human beings have a natural musical ability; we're all fluent in music in the same way that we're fluent in our first language. My job is to help my students tap into and become more confident with their natural musical ability.

Of course, there are technical hurdles to overcome when learning an instrument, and that's where I make the most immediate impact. Learning to play an instrument is actually a dual process: learning how the instrument works, and learning how our bodies and minds work. This is why learning how to play an instrument is such a valuable experience: you learn how to learn, a skill that can be applied to any life pursuit, musical or otherwise.

FAQ

What technique methods do you use?

I teach using George Vance's Progressive Repertoire as a foundation. I also utilize a collection of exercises inspired by my past teachers to help advance technique.

Other than time in the lesson, what level of time commitment is expected of me?

In order for our lessons to be effective, students need to practice on their own at a regular interval. How much you practice depends on your age and level of ability, but the more important factor is how regularly you practice. Short, regular practice sessions are much more effective than long, irregular ones.

Am I expected to bring my own instrument to lessons?

Yes. I don't own instruments that can be used for lessons, and it's important for you to attend your lessons with the instrument you use to practice. Also, it is very important that you have an instrument at home that is regularly accessible, or that the instrument you use in school can be taken home to practice with.

What do you charge for lessons?

Rates are determined by the length of the lesson. Contact me if you'd like to learn more.

Where do you teach? Can you travel to my residence for lessons?

I teach in the Parkside area of Buffalo. Lessons can be taught at your residence for a higher fee due to travel time.

Can you teach me how to play electric bass?

Yes! I learned electric bass simultaneously with my upright studies, and I feel that learning both provides a synergizing opportunity. Learning one makes the other easier and vice versa. Lesson time can be split between the two instruments.

Which bow do you use? Do you sit or stand while playing?

I am a French bow player but have experience with both bows. I play seated, but most of my students play standing. I typically have students switch to a seated position after some foundational techniques are mastered, so that their setup is consistent between their practice and what they have available at school.