In August 2923 there was a big influx of new families looking for music lessons. Piano and violin remain the most in demand, although also theory, cello and classical guitar get also requested.
I was able to create a beginner violin group of 5 young violinists. This group’s members – children of ages 5, 5, 7, 9, 10 started this adventure together, enjoying especially the end-of-class games. Make no mistake, lessons were tough, each week we pushed our focus and skills to the maximum. Proper set up is in the centre of all my work.
Two months in, 2 new students asked for a group lesson and I was able to catch them up to join our existing group. Any longer, and I would not be able to just blend them in. The group of first-starters would be way ahead. One of the two was able to join long term, which gave the whole group an added boost and encouragement. Now it became a group of 6. This group was able to perform for the first time at December 2023 recital and it was spectacular! A few adjectives that were mentioned after the concert, not in my words, in words of families who participated: “inclusive, relaxing to watch, so good, incredible, amazing, fantastic.” In the concert the beginner kids were joined by private students who just recently started lessons, the groups of my more advanced teens and also the adult students who play in the studio string orchestra, plus many teachers. Extra cellos joined in on a fun concert. And now we are really looking forward to May concert.
Working with groups puts my teaching skills to the test. It is not easy, just imagine their different personalities and different styles of leaning. I have a few trick up my sleeve, I always use most entertaining musical backing music, so the musicians don’t feel like violin doesn’t sound that good at the beginning. It blends in and it gives them courage to play out. We also spend good amount of time on bow grip, posture, violin hold. Super important.
Before you knew it, 3 parents of these children asked me if there is a possibility of opening a group adult class for beginners in violin. And I was thrilled, truly honoured that they trusted me to ask and sign up. We ended up with 4 parents of current students, one of them piano student, who joined. We started this class in January 2024. One month in, one more student jumped on, I was able to catch him up with extra lessons and he was set to join. They will perform at the May concert. To the admiration of their families and especially their children.
The dynamics of teaching adults is totally different than children. Adults need to be explained difficult technical points in very clear way, making sure they understand each step. Enjoyment of learning a musical experience after 30, 40, or even 50 is something special, original, soul warming. If you are thinking of starting to learn violin, you have found the place you might like.
I will be opening a new group violin beginner class at the end of April and next in September. You are welcome to get on our waitlist. Happy practicing everybody!
~Klaudia~
