Quick Facts about Erin
- Teaches cello to students of all ages and ability levels
- Teaches Beginning piano, guitar and ukulele
- Specializes in Classical Music
- Experience with folk and fiddle music
- BA in Music Performance from Whitman College
Learn more about Erin
General Teaching Style
Supportive, inquisitive, collaborative- I understand that different students learn in different ways and have different obstacles, so I like to work with students to find out what best suits their needs.
Throughout my whole education, I've been teaching off and on with students age 11-17, in both private and group lessons.
Most of my experience is in teaching middle and high school level, but also greatly enjoy working with younger and older students across all levels!
Curriculum
I borrow from the Essential Elements method and Jaime Fiste's sequential method to teach technique but am happy to help students tackle repertoire of their choice as well!
Focus & Goals of the First Lesson
For both adults and children, the first lesson will focus on becoming familiar with the cello. We'll practice picking up and sitting with the cello, name the strings, learn a basic bow grip and begin identifying notes on the page.
To become more comfortable with the bow and its motions, I use "action studies", which are simple physical exercises to practice moving and flexibility. We may also do some "call and response" games to begin ear training!
Most Inspirational Music Moments and Experiences
I had the chance to study under and perform with some excellent musicians in Vienna, Austria. It turns out music is a great way to reach across language barriers!
Outside of the classical tradition, I've recorded with bands and solo artists and had some great times in music tech courses. I've also played in musicals, operas, and plenty of chamber ensembles. As a result, I understand the necessity for communication and teamwork!
Insightful and Understanding Teacher
I've been taking private lessons since I was 9 years old, and have gathered insight and wisdom from several great teachers and professors over the years. This allows for multiple different approaches when it comes to teaching.
I'm also keenly aware of the struggles of practicing and have lots of tricks of the trade to help work through these problems. I too was once a little kid who really didn't want to practice.
Top 3 Desert Island Albums
The Archandroid- Janelle Monáe
The Phosphorescent Blues- Punch Brothers
String Quartet no. 15 in A minor- Beethoven (Takács Quartet Recording)