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!
MY TEACHING METHOD
- A welcoming, non judgmental learning environment
- Beautiful phrasing and musicality, not just technical excellence
- Efficient and thoughtful practice skills
- Strategies that maintain consistency and commitment
- Sustainable and healthy physical setup
- Ear training at every level based on the Suzuki method
- Recognition of progress and success
- Psychology-inspired tools to encourage a positive mindset and minimize performance anxiety
- Customized lesson plans to cater to the specific background and goals of each individual
- Audition preparation for advanced students preparing for a career in music
- Flexible lesson scheduling between online and in person lessons to allow for flexibility of your time
MY CREDENTIALS
- Masters degree in viola performance from the Juilliard School
- Morse Teaching Artist fellowship at the Juilliard School
- Bachelors degree in biopsychology from Tufts University
- 9 years of teaching experience
- 5 years as a principal and tutti violist in professional orchestras
- 4 professional orchestra auditions won
- International performance experience in the US, France, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, China, and Mexico
- Trilingual in English, French, and German
- Former mentors include Wilfried Strehle (former principal viola of the Berlin Philharmonic), Misha Amory (Violist of the Brentano Quartet), and Rictor Noren (Professor of violin, viola, and pedagogy at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee)
MY STUDENTS
Current student age range: Under 13 18%, 13-18 (27%), Adult (54%)
Number of years in my studio: 3+ years 45%, 2 years 10%, less than 1 year, 45%
Level: Beginner 36%, Intermediate 45%, Advanced 18%
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
RATES & POLICIES
Rates & policies can be found on my teaching policies page.
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!