Cello Lessons
I'm a traditional method cello teacher with over 40 years experience. I teach students of all ages and all abilities, including adults. I tailor my teaching to the individual needs of each student focusing on getting results rather then using a one size fits all approach.
Teaching Philosophy
My teaching methods are traditional with some Suzuki blended in at the beginner level. I have had some Suzuki training but I feel that the progression of the pieces in the Suzuki cello school is not as well planned as for the violin school, and after the first book I move into other literature. I stress music reading more than memorization, although memorizing some pieces at the beginning is very important. I feel that with good music reading skills students are better able to play in orchestras and chamber music groups, which is important in enjoying the cello.
With my 40 plus years of teaching experience I feel able to tailor my teaching style and the materials I use to the specific needs of each student. I have had students of all levels and all abilities, including some with mild autism. I use a great range of exercise books and performance pieces and can always find the right approach for a particular student regardless of age or ability.
Rather than measuring how long the student practices I focus on the goals to achieve for each piece or exercise. I write lesson notes to help students understand the goals for each piece and for younger students I might make a practice chart to help them organize their practicing. For my youngest students I often have them work for rewards such as stickers to help them focus their energies and stay on track towards achieving their goals.
A typical lesson and practice schedule includes both exercises and performance pieces, and a scale of the week. I use a variety of exercise and etude books, choosing the ones most appropriate for the particular student's needs and tastes, which may include other styles of music besides classical.
Starting Cello Lessons
I feel that the ideal age to start the cello is 7-8 years old. For younger children I feel the best way to develop an ear and a love for music is to participate in singing and/or piano studies.
I am happy to take beginning students at older ages as well. Some of my most successful students began their lessons in middle school or older. Some of my adult students are retired and never played an instrument until their 50's or 60's.
If you are already playing the cello and have moved or decided you need to change your teacher, I will try to make the transition as easy as possible.
Adult Students
I have taught many adult students ranging in age from people just out of college to folks in their retirement years. I have also coached adult chamber music groups, including my own students in cello choirs, sometimes playing my own arrangements. Teaching adult students is something I really enjoy and while it can be challenging for people to start the instrument in later years I have seen lots of success in my students. Several of them play regularly in orchestras and chamber music groups and have gotten to an advanced level. My adult students do not have to play in recitals unless they wish to.
For my adult students I recommend an hour long lesson, but I'm flexible with frequency of lessons. Some like weekly lessons, but others prefer more time between lessons.
Online Cello Lessons
Cello lessons are best done in person, but that is not always an available option for everyone. For those who are unable to come to my Santa Fe studio in person and desire online cello lessons, I offer lessons on Zoom. See my Online Cello Lessons page for more information.