Cello, Piano, and Violin Teachers
B.M. in Cello Performance
Masters in String Pedagogy
Classically Trained on Piano
Studio and In-Home Lessons
Main-Line and Philadelphia
“I am a cello, piano, and violin teacher. I received my BM in Cello Performance from the University of Minnesota, and recently graduated from Temple University with my Masters in String Pedagogy. While at Temple, I taught private lessons through the Community Music Scholars Program (CMSP), where several of my students won top positions in the regional All-City orchestras, with one graduating student pursuing her BM in cello this fall. I have over 10 years of teaching experience working with a wide array of ages and abilities, from students as young as eight years old to adult beginners as well as pre-conservatory students. My teaching method puts focus on the individual and what they hope to gain through their musical pursuits. I emphasize playing in a healthy and relaxed manner, and finding what works best for the student. I incorporate my extensive knowledge of music theory and technique to build a solid foundation for a lifetime of musical enjoyment. I teach beginner violin, beginner to intermediate piano, and beginner to advanced cello. In addition to my teaching schedule, I also perform with several orchestras and ensembles in the greater Philadelphia area.” Schedule A Lesson
Read below for a brief interview with Veronica:
When did you begin playing cello, and why?: The cello was actually a Christmas present when I was 14. The gift consisted of a plywood cello and bow, a methods book, and a VHS of How to Play the Cello. Like so many people out there, I loved the extensive range and overall sound and tone of the cello. Also Yo-Yo Ma was making regular performances in the Twin Cities in Minnesota and I made a point to go to every concert I could. I guess my Mom took notice!
What are your personal goals as a musician?: To continually improve my technique and skills in teaching and performing, and to pass along that knowledge and experience on to my students. Specifically here in Philly, to use music as a means to better the lives of individuals from all walks of life.
What was the most difficult of your instruments to learn – piano, violin, or cello?: Probably violin, I started at an early age with piano and pursued it as a secondary instrument in college but didn’t pick up violin until I was well into my cello studies. The technique concepts are similar, but the weight and balance distributions take some adjusting to!
Do you have a memory of a time when a musical concept or technique really clicked? Something you’ll remember forever?: VIBRATO! I learned a certain approach and positioning in my early years, and it wasn’t until much later in my studies and careful observations of talented and successful musicians that I realized my positioning needed to be adapted. Observing and experimenting with technique is something I always encourage my students to do.
What is your favorite piece of advice from one of your past (or current) teachers?: Make a great sound, and don’t injure yourself. (Jeffrey Solow) Words to live by!
What was your most challenging moment learning an instrument?: Practicing! Always a challenge.
What is your biggest musical achievement?: The recent completion of my Master’s Degree at Temple University, more specifically the lecture recital I gave in early May which was the culminating project of my two years of studies.
Favorite thing about being a cello, piano, and violin teacher?: Seeing the expression on my student’s face when something finally clicks and they get it! I feel very proud of them, and myself for getting them to that place.