Because my students range from age 4 through adult I use a variety of teaching methods and literature. I have started many students in Suzuki Book 1 and taken them through pieces such as Haydn Concerto in D Major, Dvorak Cello Concerto, Elgar Concerto, etc..

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Each students lesson is personalized and based on his or her current level on the instrument. I also look for pieces that will stimulate the students interest in the cello, and often ask them to tell me their favorite type of music.  Often I find myself up late at night rewriting  songs for students.  Sometimes we delve into one period of music that the student greatly enjoys.   There are many ways to go about learning to play, do extensions, count, read etc.   Some students use the Suzuki Books while others are on their own unique path. Young students are gently encouraged to learn note reading, while older students are given age appropriate reading books to facilitate reading.

 

There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to learning music, or teaching cello.  All students have their unique strengths and weaknesses.  I see it as my job to reinforce their strengths, and to help them gradually turn the weaknesses into some of their greatest assets.