As a teacher, my most central goal is to help guide you in developing a meaningful, mindful, and loving relationship with becoming/being a skilled violinist.
Having been a classically raised player, yet having been far from fitting the bill of being a ‘child prodigy’ or ‘natural talent’ at violin, I have spent a whole lot of my musical career thinking about the most efficient means of learning, practicing, listening, studying, and getting myself into the position of pursuing music in the way I had always dreamed of.
I have many years of experience teaching students aged between 4 - 72 years old. My students currently include children I’ve started on the instrument as young as 4 years old, advanced high school students, experienced musicians looking to learn some string/fiddle basics, retirees who are totally brand new to making music, adults who are finding their way back to the instrument after many years away, and many other scenarios in between.
In borrowing core principles from the teachings of legendary pedagogues Ivan Galamian and Shinichi Suzuki, the prioritization and achievement of comfort and efficiency are of the utmost importance when working to develop skills and ability as a violinist. I, as a teacher and performer who has made this idea paramount for myself for many years, firmly believe this is achievable both physically and mentally for all. In setting this goal as the central fixture in my work with all of my students, I believe in building a foundation of good technique and capability rooted around the core tenets of body mapping, optimized practice strategies, ear training, and informed musicality.
Aside from longer standing weekly commitments, I am also happy to give a shorter series of lessons to focus on a specific technique, tune/piece, or in giving beginners with other musical experience an initial trial period in achieving a solid set-up on fiddle.
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"Caroline is a wonderful teacher. Her strength in classical violin playing is broadened by her deep appreciation of all types of music genres and her teaching style is warm and down to earth. Working with Caroline has strengthened my playing and improved my technique and I would recommend her highly to anyone interested in learning or improving at the violin. "
- Ruth F. // Adult student
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"Caroline has rekindled my daughter's joy in playing her violin. She made a connection with her on the first lesson and the results have been really great. Caroline has not only helped her playing but also explains music theory to her in a completely understandable and applicable way. "
- Pete W. // Parent of a high school aged student
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"Best violin teacher ever!! My 9 year old daughter has been taking violin lessons with Caroline for almost a year, and I couldn’t be happier with her progress! Violin is a challenging instrument to learn, but Caroline is incredibly patient and skilled and has always tailored lessons to suit my daughter’s learning style and pace. Caroline has a deep understanding of technique and music theory, and she communicates complex concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. If you’re looking for a violin teacher who genuinely cares about your growth and makes each lesson fun and enjoyable, I highly recommend Caroline!!"
- Mikayla M. // Parent of elementary school aged student
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"These last few months of lessons have been very educational and an awesome experience. I have expanded my violin skills and my musical ability as well. I prepared through a piece of music for NYSSMA which I performed both in front of a NYSSMA adjudicator and at a recital. I look forward to more lessons in the coming school year! Thanks, Caroline, for all the great work. "
- Davida K. // High school student
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"In the time I have spent learning from Caroline so far, I have really enjoyed and gotten so much out of my lessons! Caroline is a very knowledgeable teacher who’s keen observations and clear explanations are very helpful. I’m so excited to keep learning from her! "
- Ellie M. // Adult student
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"Caroline is an incredibly talented, patient and understanding violin teacher. We appreciate how she creates a fun and supportive learning environment where our daughter Cassidy feels comfortable making mistakes and growing. Caroline has a great way of teaching the technicalities of the violin and music as well."
Linda B. // Parent of a middle school student
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"The past year of lessons has been amazing. Faye is now playing the violin and her confidence around it grows daily. She is mostly motivated to practice and her technique is great for a 6 yr old. She gives little violin performances to visitors and seems motivated to continue to learn. I love the practice guides and notes. Today she told me she was excited to practice after school. Faye has had a roller coaster with her motivation and your patience has been invaluable. Thanks for a great year."
- Julia H. // Parent of elementary school student
If you’re interested in having a lesson or in studying violin with me, I’d love to hear from you!
I currently teach a near equal balance of children and adult students of all levels in my private lesson studio. Virtual and in person options are welcome and available!
I am able to provide in-person lessons in both the New York City Metro area (Saturday-Wednesday), and have a few spots remaining in my studio based in the mid-Hudson Valley region (Thursday-Friday).
