FAQ

What makes you different from any other violin teacher?

I grew up in the Connecticut public school system and pursued every musical opportunity I could get my hands on. Having gained insight from personal experience through the music program, I give my students the resources to win auditions for such exemplary programs as the Connecticut Music Educator's Association Regionals and All State Festivals. Furthermore, I keep in contact with many of the teachers at Southington schools to help my students get the most out of their school's music lessons and to prepare them for school orchestra concerts, including the Silver Star orchestra program.
I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Music from The Hartt School, and I am currently enrolled in the Master of Music Degree program at Hartt. I have had extensive training on string pedagogy and Suzuki Method. I have completed long-term training under the tutorage of such Suzuki notables as Teri Einfeldt (Chair of the Suzuki Association of America), Ed Kreitman, Michelle George, and Diane Slone. I am a registered member of the Suzuki Association of America and qualified to teach Suzuki Books 1-4. I expect to complete my long-term training in Suzuki Books 5-10 by May 2011.

How do lessons work?

Each student has one lesson per week. During the lesson, I introduce new repertoire and integrate new techniques into their playing. I supplement their repertoire with etudes, their orchestra music, and lesson books from their school music teacher as needed. At the end of every lesson, I review the concepts introduced in the lesson and work with them to create a practice schedule to help them work efficiently through the week.

Why are lessons once per week? Why not once every two weeks?

Private music lessons are only effective if they are treated as a serious weekly commitment. It's only natural to forget skills if you haven't used them in a week. When skipping lessons, students spend more time focusing on re-learning old information instead of moving forward onto new material.

How long are lessons?

Lessons are either 30 minutes, 45 minutes, or 60 minutes. Length of time is based on the child's age and level. In general:

• 3-6 years old 30 minutes
• 7-13 years old 45 minutes
• 13+ years old 60 minutes

What ages and levels do you teach?

I teach ages 3 and above, beginners through advanced. All are welcome.

Where are lessons located?

Ariana’s Violin Studio is located in Southington. (Exits 30-32 off I-84) and she also teaches remotely via Skype.

Is my child going to learn by suzuki method esclusively?

The Suzuki Method is most effective beginning between ages 3 and 6. If your child is an absolute beginner and of this age group, I will be happy to discuss Suzuki Method with you. Most of my students are introduced to the violin in the public school system in the 4th grade, and so I incorporate my knowledge of the Suzuki Method with Traditional teaching styles to match each student's needs accordingly.

do you provide instruments?

Instruments are not available through the studio, but can be found on recommendation through trusted retailers. If you have any questions about the proper size violin or viola for your child, do not hesitate to Contact Ariana.

can a parent or guardian attend the lessons?

Parents are encouraged to attend lessons and are always welcome. In Suzuki Method lessons, parental involvement is key to success.

What istruments do you teach?

I principally teach violin, and I also teach viola.

Do you teach group lessons?

If students are interested in supplementing their private lessons with group lessons, I will offer group classes. I currently offer group workshops in chamber music, music theory, and music history to further their music education and to encourage a sense of community within my studio.

What is chamber music and what do students learn at chamber music workshops?

Chamber music is a type of classical music written for a group of instrumentalists. Often, each person is playing a separate part. If you've ever heard a string quartet play, this is typical chamber music. Most students are not introduced to chamber music until they are at a high school or college level. They often learn only to play as a soloist or as one of twelve other violinists playing the same part in an orchestra. I have my students participate in chamber music ensemble to encourage their sense of musical independence and to build their confidence so they can lead within a larger group, directly improving their performance in their school orchestra.

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