Whether you just picked up a violin or viola for the first time or if you have a few years of practice under your belt, White House of Music has the right teacher for you! With private lesson locations in Watertown, Waukesha, West Bend, and Brookfield, White House of Music has everything you’ll need to become a successful string musician.
Why Choose White House of Music?
Why Take Violin Lessons?
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Education
Bachelor of Arts in Sacred Music at Baptist College of Ministry
Professional Workshop for Violin and Viola Teachers - Indiana University
Professional Experience
I completed two classical violin recitals as part of my college program; most of my other musical performances occurred through ensembles and small orchestras. I have accompanied WSMA and Federation competitions.
Hobbies Outside of Work
Sewing, textiles, and reading
Favorite Band/Musical Group
Any symphony orchestra
What I Enjoy Most About My Job
Working with people of all ages and watching them grow
Teaching Experience
Five years part time at Falls Baptist String Program
Nine years on and off coaching and accompanying for WSMA
2014 - Present at White House of Music
Music Styles I’m Familiar With
I specialize in classical and sacred music.
Teaching Methods
Strings - Suzuki with supplemental repertoire
Piano - Bastien with supplemental repertoire
Expectations of Students
Come prepared with your music and notebook ready to learn
What I Want My Students To Know
Bring your musical ideas, questions, and dreams. Come ready to explore and grow!
Professional Experience
Performed with Concord Chamber Orchestra 2004-05
Teaching Experience
Private violin/viola lesson at WHM for past 9 years
Music Styles I’m Familiar With
Classical
Teaching Methods
Essential Elements to learn to read music, Suzuki to get students playing musically, and etude books as students get older.
Expectations of Students
I don’t expect every student to be a professional, but I expect my students to practice regularly (sometimes it can’t always be as much as it should but at least some practice time each week). I want them to progress. They should get better each week. Some weeks may be less successful than others-but I want to see them continually get better. Lastly, I want them to enjoy what they are doing!
Professional Experience
Played with many local orchestras: Concord Chamber Orchestra, Milwaukee Catholic Orchestra, Rochester Symphony, and LaCrosse Symphony
Teaching Experience
Education
Music Styles I’m Familiar With
I mostly teach Classical, but have taught fiddle and country styles to kids and adults.
Teaching Methods
Expectations of Students
Each student is taught differently and learns at different levels, so I would have different expectations for each student.
What I Want My Students To Know
I make an effort to approach each student as a unique and promising artist, help students set individual goals, then plan and prepare lesson materials tailored for what they intend to achieve.
Favorite band/musical group
Love Pentatonix
What you enjoy most about your job:
Seeing my students mature and grow as musicians.
Professional Experience
Solo playing for weddings and other events since 1980’ish
String quartet and chamber ensembles since 1982’ish
Chicago Civic Orchestra, principal second violinist 1985-1987
Tours:
Recordings:
Teaching Experience
Violin & piano private lessons since early 1980’s
Music Styles I’m Familiar With
While classically trained on violin and piano, I play and enjoy many styles on violin/fiddle including classical, baroque, country, folk, rock, blues, and musicals.
Teaching Methods
Whatever best suits student’s interest, learning style, and level. I like to incorporate music of student’s choice as ability allows.
Typically includes: Violin – combination of Suzuki, Mark O’Connor, classical repertoire, plus technique
Expectations of Students
I enjoy students who put effort into learning the fundamentals of their instrument so that we may progress. “Treading water” due to lack of interest or practicing drives all involved nutsy.
What I Want My Students To Know
I share a home with my husband, young daughter, cats, and a variety of animals. I was the fiddle player with The Wickershams in Madison and Hillbilly Winos based in Chicago area.
When not involved with music & family, I’m with animals. I’m a licensed wildlife rehabilitator and founder of Atagahi Wildlife Haven. I’m also a Certified Veterinary Technician and Veterinary Technician Specialist (Behavior) with a feline behavior consultation business called Feline Fine Again.
All ages
I have been teaching private music lessons since high school! It is so wonderful to help someone discover their love for music. I studied classical music in college, and I am also a singer, songwriter, and performer. While working on learning an instrument is hard work, the rewards are life-long!
Bachelor of Music, UWEC
I have given private lessons for many years in different situations. At schools, at people's homes, in my home, and at WHOM as well!
Classical, contemporary
I am comfortable using different method books. I like to help the students find the best fit for their situation.
Bio
I chose to pursue a career in the industrial electrical business, however, the love of music has always kept me involved with performing, teaching and playing. I strive for musical excellence, but never want to neglect the fun that music can bring! Music can be an expression of our emotions and soul in a way that words can often fail. I love seeing student’s eyes light up when they get a concept or seeing them smile and laugh when we are having fun making music!
Education
25 years of experience. B.A. in Liberal Arts from Maranatha Baptist University in 2017. Trained through the Flint School of performing arts & private lessons from DSO (Detroit Symphony Orchestra) acting associate concertmaster Hai-Xin Wu. Participated in the Dort Honors String quartet & multiple orchestras.
Professional/Teaching Experience
I have taught violin, viola, and piano for 10 years. I’ve played violin since I was 3 years old and started piano when I was 4. Music has been a huge part of my life and I take every opportunity to use my abilities.
Teaching Methods & Musical Styles/Genres Taught
I love to ignite and feed a passion and love for music in each child’s life. My goal is to teach each student how to teach themselves and work with them to find ways to make the best music they can and have a blast while doing it! I teach classical, fiddle, sacred, and more.
Expectation of Students
I expect my students to come ready to learn and have fun! Practicing between lessons makes the lessons more fun so I expect some practice between lessons the amount being conditional on each student.
What I want my students to know
I strive for musical excellence, but never want to neglect the fun that music can bring! Music can be an expression of our emotions and soul in a way that words can often fail.
Methods Taught:
I prefer Sally O'Reilly series for teaching technique to young beginners and Suzuki books for repertoire for all ages. Otherwise, I adapt and custom design all teaching methods to the needs of the student. I was trained in several different methods and my teaching style has become encompassing of all training I have received.
What you enjoy most about your job
I love seeing student’s eyes light up when they get a concept or seeing them smile and laugh when we are having fun making music!
Hobbies outside of work
I love going hiking with friends, playing board games, & keeping up with my overgrown chocolate Labrador!
I started playing piano when I was 6 years old. My love for music and the piano persisted through college and I pursued a degree in Music from California State University Chico. Most of my coursework was in the Music Education degree.
I was a teacher's Assistant for Beginning Piano Methods at CSUChico. 1.5 years teaching at the White House of Music
Beginning music theory, classical, contemporary
Bastien and Alfred’s, I am familiar with Suzuki but not a certified Suzuki teacher.
All ages
I have been teaching voice for twenty-five years. My former students can be found on opera stages across the country, on and off Broadway, in national and international tours, on TV, and in movies. They can also be found in courtrooms, hospital and surgical rooms, as university professors, public school teachers, doulas, and stay-at-home moms.
I have consistently prepared students for auditions, competitions, and contests with great success.
I have founded two summer programs for singers and collaborative pianists, one in Austria (which is now closed) and one here in Wisconsin, attracting and thus teaching students from all over the world.
I have directed shows, judged competitions, and conducted community choirs.
I began my musical studies at 10 with Violin and Viola and continued playing in orchestras all throughout college. So, though my career has been "voice heavy", my initial steps began as an orchestra player and over the years I have taught a great many of these students as well.
I have just returned to WI, where I grew up, after living in Miami, Germany, and Austria for nearly 30 years.
I have a Bachelor of Music and Master of Music from the University of Miami (Coral Gables, FL) both in Vocal Performance.
I have 25 years of experience teaching voice to beginner through emerging, young professional with a great many violin and viola students interspersed there as well.
Classical, Musical Theater, etc
I will meet each student where they are and decide on the best road forward. This is a very personal approach and will vary with each person.
All ages; beginners- advanced; adult beginners
Zoom
Tricia Fairman Riley is a violinist and fiddler based in MIlwaukee, Wisconsin. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, music has taken her on a journey to the Pacific Northwest, and back to the Midwest. Ms. Riley teaches a variety of styles and genres of fiddle and violin playing, including classical strings, jazz, Irish, Scottish and Americana fiddle. She incorporates a Suzuki-style teaching approach, believing that all children -and students of every age - can. A favorite complement from a 10yo student is she is “firm, but nice” in her teaching approach; meaning Ms. Riley won’t let you off the hook on scales, but will reward that effort with teaching your favorite song. Ms. Riley’s musical journey started at 8yo when she was gifted a violin for her birthday. She studied string pedagogy at The Ohio State University with Drs. Kai Hui Tan and Robert Gillespie, receiving her Bachelor’s in Music Education in 2009. Ms. Riley is passionate for contemporary and new music, and loves discovering new or little known composers. She is an Irish and Scottish fiddler, performing and recording with Ockham’s Razor (Seattle, WA 2016-2023). Ms. Riley performs and teaches workshops in Irish and Scottish fiddle stylings at community cultural festivals. She currently performs with new Milwaukee country band, Prime Country MKE.
Bachelors, Music Education Focus: String Pedagogy The Ohio State University (Columbus, OH)
Independent violin/fiddle teacher (2009-present) Ethos Music Center, Portland, OR (2013-2018) Metropolitan Youth Symphony, Strings Coach, Portland, OR (2014-2020) Michelle Tuesday Music School, Gahanna, OH (2011-2013)
Classical strings Suzuki-focused Fiddle (Americana, Irish, Scottish) Jazz
Suzuki Traditional
Violin, Viola, Cello, Upright Bass, Electric Bass, Music Theory
All ages.
Ryan Erdmann is a professional electric bassist, double bass player, and dynamic music educator who teaches 5th and 6th grade orchestra in West Bend, Wisconsin. He has multiple years of experience teaching applied instrument lessons on guitar, bass, drums, and orchestral strings. Outside of education, he performs a variety of musical genres, ranging from classical, to jazz, and to different styles of rock music. Performance highlights include events with the Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra, Murphy's Law, and an album credit on Michael Murphy's debut album, Indigo Jones. Outside of performing and teaching, Ryan enjoys football, baseball, and various tabletop games.
Lawrence University - Bachelors of Music - Instrumental/General Music Education & Music Theory Graduated December 2022.
Orchestra Director - West Bend School District for 5th and 6th Grade Orchestra. 2023-present
Private Lesson Instructor for Guitar, Electric Bass, Drums, Music Theory, Violin, Viola, Cello, and Double Bass. 2018-present
Rock Infused Orchestra Bass & Violin Coach. 2023-present Mile of Music Education Team Member. 2023-present
Music Teacher - Neenah Joint School District for 6th Grade Choir and Orchestra. 2023-2023.
Heid Music Rock-U Coach. 2022-2023
Classical, jazz, rock, pop, country, alternative.
Ryan has experience implementing Sound Innovations, Essential Elements, and Hal Leonard's curriculum for all instruments taught. Ryan also will develop and implement a curriculum tailored to the needs and wishes of his students. Ryan enjoys following the Suzuki method of instruction and has plans to become a certified instructor of this method soon.
All Ages
Irena recently graduated from UWM with a BA in Music with cello as her primary instrument and voice as a secondary. She grew up learning violin in Suzuki lessons and was self-taught on the cello until getting to college. Irena loves all things music and grew up in dance lessons, singing in choirs and musical theater, and playing strings in her school orchestra and a variety of instruments in the band when she could fit it into her schedule. For Irena, music is both a career and a hobby, as she enjoys Salsa dancing and learning additional instruments in her free time.
BA Music - UWM
Irena currently is a strings teacher with El Sistema in Waukesha and a dance teacher in the Mad Hot Rhythm program through Danceworks.
5+
While I have my roots in Chicago, I have lived in Watertown, WI for the past several years. Along with my husband Tyler, I enjoy spending time outdoors in the daytime and then playing a good board game in the evening. We also enjoy helping out with the youth group at our church.
I hold a BA in music with concentrations in String Pedagogy and Violin Performance from Maranatha Baptist University.
I have been teaching violin for seven years. I began to teach in college as a freshman and have taught ever since!
I am most familiar with teaching classical music, but I also enjoy exploring other genres such as fiddle, jazz, and of course, Disney!
I use the Suzuki method as my main teaching material but love to include pieces and songs from elsewhere.
All Ages
Zoom, Google Meet, FaceTime, Skype, Microsoft Teams
Hello! I am a compassionate and dedicated violin instructor with over 15 years of experience playing the violin. My teaching style is a perfect blend of practice and strategy, utilizing a vast collection of teaching materials tailored for each academic level. I focus on making learning engaging, fun, and motivating, ensuring that every student enjoys mastering their instrument. As a professional violin instructor, I have performed in various ensembles, including choir, chorale, orchestra, and chamber strings, which has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of music performance. My unique ability to work with students one-on-one enables me to connect with each individual and adapt my teaching methods to best suit their learning styles. My patience and passion for teaching set me apart from other teachers, and I take great pride in guiding my students to success in their academic goals. I truly love each and every one of my students and go above and beyond to make sure they achieve absolute success. When you book lessons with me, I will assess your needs and create a strong learning plan that helps you gain the high-level mastery you desire. As a patient instructor, I will walk you through problems at your pace until you understand everything clearly. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to unlock your true potential on the violin! Take the first step towards mastering the violin and sign up for lessons today! Some of my professional experiences include: Professional Violin Instructor & Music Secretary at Falls Baptist Music School (Menomonee Falls, WI) from 2019 to 2022 Developed a strategic violin pedagogical progression for training beginners in key violin techniques and skills Created attractive, fun-to-use, detailed "practice charts" to help students triple their practice times Pioneered a "practice lab" concept for young students to focus on practice after-school Coordinated guest lectures, special workshops, and organized music library for the high school and college levels
My teaching experience has shown me that every student is unique, and I strive to cater to their individual needs and preferences. From ages 4 and up, I aim to make lessons enjoyable and engaging, while also focusing on proper technique and posture. I believe that it's essential to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where students feel comfortable making mistakes and asking for help when needed. I teach not only classical music but also current popular music that's played on the radio. By incorporating songs that students can recognize and are excited about, I encourage their enthusiasm and motivation to learn. In my lessons, students develop their musicality, technical proficiency, and disciplined practicing, all within a nurturing and supportive atmosphere. I also believe that fostering a strong student-teacher relationship is crucial in helping students reach their full potential. By respecting and appreciating each student's individuality, I strive to be a guide and mentor, passing down the legacy of music and helping them become confident, skilled musicians who can impact the lives of others through their artistry.
I am a passionate music educator who believes that music is an essential aspect of being human. My teaching philosophy revolves around providing a comprehensive music education for students of all ages, levels, and styles. I strive to create customized lesson plans that cater to each student's unique needs, taking into account their age, experience, learning style, and individual goals. I adhere to the principle that music education should be both enjoyable and stress-free. My goal is to help students feel at ease while gaining confidence in their abilities. As a patient and encouraging instructor, I pride myself on my ability to connect with each student, helping them to reach their full potential. With over 4+ years of experience teaching private music lessons, I have honed my skills in various methods and continue to study new teaching styles to help my students meet their goals. While primarily focusing on classical music, I also incorporate modern music and exercises to support techniques in any genre. As a musician with a wide range of talents, I am dedicated to playing and teaching various styles of music. My primary instruments are the viola and violin, but my musical abilities extend far beyond these two instruments. Performing in chamber ensembles, symphony orchestras, and composing my own music allows me to stay up-to-date with music theory and maintain my proficiency in other instruments such as piano. The qualities that set the best music teachers apart include consistency, commitment, communication, connection, and capability. I strive to embody these qualities in my teaching, ensuring that each student receives a valuable and transformative music education. So, if you're ready to embark on an exciting musical journey, let's begin! Together, we'll explore the world of music, fostering a lifelong love and appreciation for the art. Let your musical adventure start today!
As a versatile and experienced violin teacher, I am skilled in teaching a wide range of music styles to cater to the diverse interests of my students. Some of the music styles I teach include: Classical: This style forms the foundation of violin playing and is essential for developing proper technique, tone, and musicality. I teach students to interpret and perform pieces from various periods, such as Baroque, Classical, Romantic, and Contemporary, exposing them to composers like Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, and more. Personal Performance Pieces: I believe it is essential for students to develop a personal connection with the music they play. To foster this, I help my students pieces that are assigned to them by their teachers as well as pieces that will help them grow in their stage of technique development. Orchestra and Chamber Music: I highly encourage my students to participate in orchestras and chamber music ensembles, as these experiences enhance their musicianship, teamwork, and listening skills. In these settings, students learn to blend and communicate effectively within a group, whether it be a duet, trio, quartet, or larger ensemble. I will make sure to enable students to master their pieces that they play in their group through coaching in private lessons. Jazz: For students interested in exploring the world of jazz, I provide instruction in improvisation, rhythm, and phrasing, drawing inspiration from jazz legends like Stéphane Grappelli and Regina Carter. Fiddle/Folk: For those passionate about fiddle and folk music, I teach traditional tunes from various cultures, such as Irish, Scottish, Bluegrass, Old-Time, and more. Students will learn techniques specific to these styles, including ornamentation and bowing patterns. Pop: For students interested in playing popular and rock music, I teach them to perform contemporary songs and explore the use of the violin in different genres. I also focus on techniques like playing by ear and improvisation. By offering instruction in various music styles, I aim to provide a well-rounded and engaging learning experience for my students, allowing them to explore their interests and grow as musicians.
As an experienced violin teacher, I am well-versed in various teaching methods and philosophies that have been developed by some of the top violin pedagogues. I tailor my instruction to each student's individual needs, drawing from these approaches to provide a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.
Some of the key methods and philosophies I incorporate into my teaching include:
1. Shinichi Suzuki: Suzuki Method or Talent Education
2. Key takeaways: I believe that every child has the potential to develop musical ability, and I emphasize learning music by ear before reading. I also advocate for parental involvement in the learning process, fostering a supportive environment for the student.
3. Stanley Fletcher: New Tunes for Strings
4. Key takeaways: I focus on building a strong foundation in technique and provide interesting and engaging repertoire for beginners. I also emphasize the importance of ensemble playing and collaboration.
5. Paul Rolland: The Teaching of Action in String Playing
6. Key takeaways: In my teaching, I stress the importance of physical movement and body awareness, advocating for a problem-solving approach to teaching. I incorporate movement-based exercises to promote healthy playing habits.
7. Mimi Zweig: Balanced playing and a healthy technique
8. Key takeaways: I encourage the development of a balanced and tension-free technique, emphasizing the importance of understanding the body's natural movements. I also strive to create a nurturing and supportive learning environment for my students.
9. Zoltán Kodály: Kodály Method
10. Key takeaways: I believe in the importance of music education for all children, emphasizing singing and ear training as a foundation for instrumental learning. I also incorporate folk music and solfege in the learning process.
11. Géza Szilvay: Colourstrings Method
12. Key takeaways: I employ a child-centered approach to violin pedagogy, using color-coded strings and visual aids to simplify learning. I also encourage a holistic approach to music education, focusing on the development of musicianship as a whole.
13. Dorothy DeLay: Individualized and nurturing teaching approach
14. Key takeaways: I believe in the importance of understanding each student's unique needs and abilities, encouraging students to analyze and solve problems independently. I also foster a supportive and encouraging learning environment that helps students thrive.
15. Ivan Galamian: Systematic approach to violin technique
16. Key takeaways: I focus on the development of a solid technical foundation through scales, etudes, and exercises. I emphasize the importance of efficient practice and advocate for a balanced approach to teaching, combining tradition and innovation.
17. Josef Gingold: The art of violin playing and teaching
18. Key takeaways: I believe in the importance of developing a deep understanding of the music, emphasizing the value of musical expression and communication. I encourage a high level of technical and artistic mastery in my students, helping them become well-rounded musicians.
All ages, beginner to advance.
I started Violin at 3 years of age. I went to school for music performance. Later in life I went into Law Enforcement and changed career paths. I missed playing the violin. My career in law enforcement brought me full circle back to playing the violin. Sometimes life brings you full circle to a place you have been before just to show you how much you have grown.
I studied music performance in College and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts. I studied with Ralph Evans and Efim Boico in college. I played in a quartet and chamber group. I have also studied with Mimi Zweig, Yuri Beliavski, and Wei Tsun Chang.
I have 20 plus years of teaching private lessons. I have also prepared students for MYSO, WSMA, Federation, and many concerto competitions. I have experience in the Carl Flesch, Russian 4 octave and Galamian scale systems.
Jazz, Bluegrass, Improvisation, Hip hop, and Irish Fiddle.
Classical, Galamian, Suzuki, Russian, and Carl Flesch.
Does your student want to play the violin or viola? Our basic starter guide outlines a number of best practices for lesson preparation, instrument care, and what to look for in a new violin or viola!
Our resident orchestra specialist provides a list of tuning “do’s and don’ts” to tuning your string instrument. Learn more about this process and some helpful tools in this brief video tutorial.
This brief video sponsored by Yamaha and White House of Music showcases the benefits and opportunities offered by joining an orchestra program.
Our very own Dave Topolovec has trained countless thousands of students in the Wauwatosa School District. In this article, he provides a reference guide for parents of new orchestra students.
Do you need to replace a string on your violin? David Topolovec walks you through each of the various parts and repair process in this step-by-step tutorial.
“John in the string shoppe helped my wife fall in love with a new viola that she is delighted with. The whole experience was magical in her words. Customer service at its best!”
“Being an adult, it was not easy for me to learn Piano, until I met my first Piano teacher Angela at White House of Music in Waukesha. I would never forget that experience. “
“Extremely knowledgeable! I have been a customer of WHM for more than 25 years. The service has always been exceptional and the employees know their stuff. These guys are clearly passionate about music and helping others explore and enjoy it. Additionally I find the prices to be comparable with anywhere in the area or online. Keep it up White House!”
“Rented violins while my daughter was still growing from them before buying (a full sized violin). Great experience all around! Thank you to John helping her to select her new beautiful instrument.”
“We stopped in the store on 3/20/17 to check out ukuleles for our daughter’s birthday. Mike showed us the instruments and all of their features and proceeded to play “Happy Birthday” to our daughter Ella. Mike was very helpful and made our experience at your store a very positive one so much so that we purchased a new Ukulele for Ella’s Birthday. She looks forward to showing Mike what she can play at his monthly class.”
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While appointments aren’t required in any of our stores, they do make sure that you receive one-on-one assistance as soon as you step foot in the door. It will also help our staff be prepared for your questions – whether that be on our instrument rental programs, signing a young musician up for music lessons, making your first instrument purchase, joining the New Horizons Band, and more!
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