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In today’s online environment, we are all craving connection.
We turn to artists to calm our nerves and feed our souls.
We connect with others through art and music.
We all need musicians, and musicians need other musicians.

Stephanie Knutsen

Private, In-Person Lessons

in Violin and Viola

As an educator and passionate performer, I strive to instill the love of playing music in each of my students. In my Sterling, Virginia home studio, students of all ages learn skills that will benefit them in every facet of school and life.

Why Take Private Lessons?

  • Private lessons are a great way to keep students motivated and engaged in learning music. In most classroom settings, it can be challenging for the director to give each student the time and personalized attention they need to make improvements. One-on-one, a private instructor can tailor each lesson to your child’s needs – and attention span.
  • As a professional on my instrument, I can model a professional violin or viola sound. If the only sounds your student is hearing is their stand partner at school, they can only progress so far. How do babies learn to talk?  By listening to people talk.  How do instrumentalists learn to play with a characteristic sound?  By hearing a characteristic sound.
  • Weekly lessons give the student more opportunity to get valuable feedback. In school orchestra, directors just don’t have the time to hear each player, but in a lesson, the student can try new skills multiple times with my direct input and can advance more quickly.
  • Regional/district/youth orchestra auditions can be approached on an individual level. I can meet a child where they are to begin the audition music and help them develop an individual game plan to prepare them for the audition.  This helps students learn how to set goals – both long term and weekly.
  • Working towards solo performance goals is a great motivator. I encourage my students to participate in solo and ensemble festivals and studio recitals. There’s nothing like preparing music to a high level of performance to build self-confidence and a sense of accomplishment. I am here to support the students to be sure performing is a positive experience!