private music lessons

folk & classical styles


Whether you come as a classically-trained player looking to learn some fiddle tunes, a student needing support with orchestra music, or you’ve just always wanted to learn to play an instrument (it’s never too late!)— I’m ready to meet you where you are.

I’ve been teaching for nearly ten years, and work primarily with middle-school to adult students of all levels (though I’ll consider students younger than middle-school age if it seems like a good fit). Lessons cover foundational skills in instrument technique, practice strategies, applied music theory, ensemble skills, and more. We may focus on learning by ear, reading sheet music, or both.

I believe in a collaborative dynamic between teacher and student. Lessons are interactive– fueled by questions, conversations, and making music together. I want my students to walk away from lessons with confidence in their technical growth as well as a sense of their own unique musicality.

testimonials

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testimonials ~

“Marina’s violin lessons are the best! I am second in my family learning to play violin and absolutely comfortable recommending lessons with Marina at any level of music proficiency. Marina is an incredibly talented violinist and music teacher. Her passion for string instruments is contagious and her knowledge of music quite impressive; she shares insights from various styles and approaches. Violin lessons with her are engaging and challenging but also extremely enjoyable. Ask Marina of all the different ways you can play a violin and you are in for a treat!”

-Silvia Casadei

“Marina was my son's violin teacher for about a year; and I will just say that he cried when she left the school.  When I asked him what he enjoyed most about her teaching, he replied he enjoyed learning more songs than he had previously.  She taught him some fiddle tunes and they would play together and I think he was surprised how good he was sounding.  Marina also understands and knows classical violin and came to learn various styles both of learning (reading music vs. learning by ear) and playing- and also she plays beautifully.”

-Sibyl Haynes

“Marina was an excellent teacher for my son who had her from the start at fifth grade. She taught him the technique fundamentals so that it was easy for him to get past the scratchy phase, and also fostered a true interested music for him so that he was able to choose some pieces on his own, as well as a mix of pieces that got him to where he needed to be technique and theory-wise, developing his ear and attention to detail. She was a good mix of encouraging and high expectations and he continues to do well in orchestra to this day. Always responsive and forward-thinking, a great project manager of her students as well as flexible and accommodating of families’ schedules.” 

-Sian Wu

Location:

I teach lessons from my home in Port Townsend.   I am also open to teaching remotely via Zoom for students who are located further away.

Rates:

30m - $40

45m - $55

60m - $70

*For us to get the most out of our lesson time together, I usually recommend at least 45m  for most students* 

If you are interested in lessons but cost is a barrier, please reach out and let me know; I’m open to arranging a scholarship or sliding-scale situation. I want music education to be accessible to everyone!

If you are interested in lessons, please send me a short description of the student (name/age/prior experience*/interest) and I will get back to you as soon as I can!