Looking for a Cello Teacher?

Welcome to the website for my studio. I'm glad you're visiting! Let me tell you about myself.

I have enjoyed many happy years of teaching experience in various types of programs and settings, and I'm comfortable teaching all ages, including adults. I have extensive training and experience in Suzuki pedagogy, and I incorporate as much of that background as possible in my traditional studio today.

My focus is on helping students to develop correct technique from the beginning, to understand what they're doing, and to develop a true love of music and cello playing. My goal is for them to discover how to teach themselves, as ultimately we all must do in order to truly learn, whether we're in a situation with a teacher or not (and whether we're studying music or not!)

My studio is in my home on the West Side of Ann Arbor near the intersection of Jackson and Maple. I offer 45" lessons, 60" lessons, optional Saturday group classes focusing on technique, repertoire and chamber music, as well as classes for music reading and proficiency. I've always offered a formal recital opportunity in the spring, but my goal is to offer an additional - more informal - recital opportunity in the winter as well, and to do more with the studios of other teachers. Last year we collaborated with a dancer and African drummer in a Rhythm Workshop, which was great fun for all, and will be offered again this year.

Choosing the right instructor for cello lessons is a very important decision, and should be done with care and consideration. It can be daunting to know where to start, and what questions to ask, other than "do you have openings?" and "what do you charge?"

Although the best advice may come from another family whose cellist plays very well, many people start with a list of names offered by school orchestra teachers, or local music stores. These are all good resources, but please do your own research. Finding a fine teacher with experience, and making the best match for your child's personality and learning style are much more important than a convenient location or a low lesson rate! Make the most of interviewing the teachers, and those who recommend them, in order to make a thoughtful and satisfying choice for you or your child.

Following are a number of links to articles that offer very good advice and may be helpful to you.

Finding the right teacher in five steps by Patrick Sullivan
-Excerpted from Strings magazine, January 2003, No. 107.

Choosing A Music Teacher For Your Child or Yourself
-Excerpted from the website of Music Teachers National Association.

How to Choose a Music Teacher Make an Informed Decision
-Excerpted from the website of Wisconsin Music Teachers Association.


References
Don't hesitate to ask for references from other cello students/parents. While a student opinion is not a professionally qualified recommendation, a current parent/student will have first-hand knowledge of the teacher's actual teaching style and personal dynamics, and in that sense, will have much to offer you.

Observation
In the best case scenario, a teacher will invite you to observe another student's lesson (at no charge) and/or offer you an introductory lesson (at a single lesson rate) in order meet you in person and provide a more direct experience. This opportunity can make all the difference in some situations. Do take advantage of such invitations if you're serious but need a little more information.

Feel free to call or e-mail me with any questions, and thank you for looking in!