"Hello! I graduated from California State University, Northridge in 2019 with a BM in Violin Performance, and have been teaching ever since. I specialize in teaching the Suzuki method to violin students, and am familiar with the theory exams they frequently come across, such as AP tests and Certificate of Merit. As a student, I attended several years of theory courses at Colburn, and learned how to analyze music, write four-part harmonies and sight-sing.

As a teacher, I believe it is my role to provide assignments to further students' knowledge, while also providing space for them to ask questions and experiment with different ideas. I typically teach one-on-one, as it helps cater to specific needs, both skill wise and personality wise. It can be easier to determine any gaps in the students’ knowledge during private lessons, and quickly gets them on track to succeed. Music theory at any level is extremely complex, and it is vital that students have the space to ask questions and review materials as much as they need. After twenty-one years of playing the violin, music theory is something I still apply to my practice and understanding of music every day, and this is why I think it is so important to thoroughly study the topic.

Beginning theory lessons include how to read music, understanding rhythms, recognizing if one pitch is higher or lower than another, and a very simple understanding of scales, including zero to three accidentals.

Intermediate theory lessons include the circle of fifths, learning how to write, play, and recognize scales in any key, how to build chords and arpeggios, identifying the key signature in pieces, time signatures, and more complex rhythms.

Advanced theory lessons include writing four-part harmonies, analyzing and writing harmonic progressions and ornamentation.

Whether you are learning an instrument and are curious about the "why" behind the music you are playing, or need assistance in passing your next music theory exam, I am excited to get started with you!" less...