I teach viola and violin lessons to people of all ages and levels, online or in person. I play as a viola second soloist in the Opera Orchestra National of Montpellier, and I studied viola at The Juilliard School in New York City as well as the Universität der Künste Berlin. I love sharing the joy of music making with my students, and invite you to book a trial violin or viola lesson with me through my lesson inquiry form!
I teach consistent and intentional practice skills, the development of a refined sense of phrasing, and the physical technique that will sustain a lifetime of playing. I also teach with an emphasis on the psychological elements of performance such as handling anxiety, high pressure environments, and developing confidence. Everything I teach works towards achieving beautiful phrasing and musicality, not just technical excellence. I have extensive personal expertise in preparing for conservatory and professional auditions and orchestra jobs (including winning 4 professional orchestra auditions).
Whether you are a complete beginner, returning to the instrument, or looking to prepare for professional level auditions, I would be happy to meet you for a lesson! I work with people of all ages and backgrounds, and I teach every individual based on their unique experience and goals. I take my experience as a professional musician directly into my lessons, presenting many of the same strategies I use for my own performance to my students. I grew up learning through the Suzuki method, so I emphasize ear training as well as good instrumental technique. Lessons can focus on formative technique and set-up, ear training, performance practice, solo repertoire development, orchestral excerpts, or audition preparation.
Beginner or returning students can expect a flexible approach depending on their musical background and learning preferences.
Intermediate or advanced students can expect to develop the technique they already have to a higher level to be able to learn more difficult repertoire. I emphasize the development of each student’s unique voice and musicality. Together, we can discuss how technique and practice strategies can help you successfully execute a beautifully crafted musical phrase.
I also offer audition coaching for advanced students preparing for orchestra auditions, music festival applications, or other pre-professional work. I have 10 years of experience participating in high level auditions for conservatories, music festivals, and professional orchestras. If you are looking for advanced audition prep, you can book individual sessions or sign up for weekly lessons.
I also offer coaching in orchestra or chamber repertoire, as either individual lessons, sectionals, or chamber group coaching.
CREDENTIALS
I graduated with a master’s degree in viola performance from The Juilliard School in New York City, and studied at the Universität der Künste Berlin with the former Berlin Philharmonic principal viola Wilfried Strehle. I have developed my teaching approach through professional pedagogy programs and teaching fellowships and a decade of private teaching experience.
PROFESSIONAL PERFORMANCE EXPERIENCE
I am a violist second solo in the Opera Orchestra National Montpellier, and have performed with ensembles including the Kammerakademie Potsdam, Anhaltische Philharmonie Dessau, Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Verbier Festival Orchestra, Charleston Symphony, the Boston Philharmonic, and the New World Symphony.
BACKGROUND
I am a life long musician; I started playing violin at age 5, learning through the Suzuki method, and viola at 16. While earning my Bachelors degree in Biopsychology at Tufts University, I fell in love with classical music through orchestral performance, and decided to pursue a career as an orchestral musician instead. Nothing brings me greater joy than seeing my students grow as musicians and people.
RATES & POLICIES
Rates & policies can be found on my teaching policies page.
TESTIMONIALS
“I have studied viola with Julia for several years, starting as an adult beginner. I chose Julia because she was a serious Juilliard graduate and then continued, absolutely certain I had found a dream professional violist who was interested in how people “could” learn based on their learning style and what their goals were for music! She sees, listens, communicates and delights in the learning experience. Her skill level is professional. Julia will start with you wherever you are at and take you where you feel you want to go. She is intuitive and skilled and allowed me to experiment with how to approach the viola; becoming comfortable with the instrument, getting a good sound, learning to hang in there and to see that the doing IS the progress.” -Jacqueline, adult student
“I have been taking violin lessons with Julia for over three years now. I had restarted playing violin as an adult and she had worked with me since day one of starting over. She is a wonderful teacher and mentor during and outside of lessons. She has gone above and beyond to answer questions outside of our lesson hours and put in extra time for me that she didn’t have to do. With her help I just won my first position with an orchestra. She’s a wonderful person, very easy to talk to and wonderful at explaining concepts.” -Whitney, adult student
“Julia is a fantastic teacher. She is enthusiastic, incredibly patient, and highly knowledgeable – her musical talent and experience are clear from the first lesson, and her work is truly inspiring. I couldn’t recommend Julia enough!” -Gidget, former student
FAQ
Do online lessons really work?
I have found, both as a student and a teacher, that online learning can be equally rewarding and effective as in person learning (as long as both student and teacher have a strong internet connection!). However, a choice of online, in person, or hybrid lessons is usually a question of personal preference.
What is a good age to start music lessons?
I teach lessons from the age of 4 and up. Anyone of any age can learn an instrument, but each age range may need different teaching methods to best learn and make progress. I have taught beginners of every age group; it’s never too late to start! I have many students who have started as adults and become wonderful musicians.
Can I take lessons with you as an adult?
Yes! I have experience teaching students of all ages and levels. Some parents choose to take lessons alongside their kids. Some adults have always wanted to learn an instrument and are picking it up for the first time. Some took lessons as kids and are now choosing to come back to it, or are looking to take their playing to the next level in order to join their local orchestra. Anyone of any level or background can take lessons with me.
Do you teach advanced coaching for auditions?
Yes! I have 10 years of experience participating in high level auditions for conservatories, music festivals, and professional orchestras. I have taken many professional orchestra auditions and have won 4 professional orchestra positions. If you are looking for advanced audition prep, you can book individual sessions or sign up for weekly lessons by contacting me.
How much do music lessons cost?
My rates are listed on my policies page.
Should parents participate in a child’s music lessons?
Particularly for younger children, parental involvement can be key to student success. It is strongly encouraged that parents of students younger than 12 participate in the lessons and in practicing at home.
How long should lessons be?
Beginning students of all ages are encouraged to take 30 or 45 minute lessons. Once at an intermediate or advanced level, 60 minute lessons are advised.
Do you have performance opportunities?
Semesterly studio concerts are planned to begin in fall 2026!