West Melbourne VIC, Australia
Violin Lessons | Artist development, Aural Lessons, Ensemble Coaching, Theory Lessons, Skype Lessons
Bio
I am a violinist/teacher with a Bachelor of Music with First Class Honours from the University of Melbourne and a current Master of Teaching Teacher Candidate specialising in instrumental music and classroom music.
I have taught violin and coached ensemble playing to students of all ages from beginner to First-Year Undergraduate level, including chamber music coaching at the Melbourne Conservatorium Young Artists Academy.
I have a wealth of orchestral and chamber music experience that led me to international tours and chamber music festivals around the world, such as the Allegro Vivo Festival, Akaroa International Festival and the Mimir Chamber Music Festival.
I am a recipient of numerous awards and scholarships including the Kate Flowers Memorial Scholarship, Truby Williams Conservatorium Endowment Scholarship, Corinna D’Hage Mayer String Scholarship, W. Bardsley Award, Cassidy Bequest Scholarship, and EC Wellisch Bequest.
As an avid chamber musician in Melbourne’s new music scene, I collaborate regularly with composers and have premiered numerous works through Buxton Contemporary, 3MBS, IgniteLAB, Brunswick Mechanics Institute and New Music Studio Series.
Teaching Info
*Free introductory group lessons for kids*: Through the generous support of Marianne Rothschild’s Music Scholarship Program, I am offering 8 free group lessons (up to 4 students per group) in West Melbourne. Violin hire is available at $50 per term. Eligibility:
- primary school students
- beginner
HOW I TEACH:
I strongly believe that a student’s best teacher is ultimately themselves, so in my teaching I will always encourage and guide students to appreciate beyond the notes on the page and to build a long-lasting love for the instrument, while always incorporating the necessary technical aspects of playing. I’ve had many great teachers and what they all have in common is great patience and care for their students, and that is something crucial I bring to my own teaching.
I have been described as a “methodical yet creative” teacher who will have 10 different ways to solve 1 single issue on the violin. I treat my students as collaborators and am highly adaptable to each student’s individual goals and ways of learning.
My method is based on the English and the Russian school of violin playing, and various levels of music theory will be incorporated as part of an all-round approach to learning.
I am fluent in both English and Mandarin and can teach in either language.
I teach in person (West Melbourne) or online.
STUDENT RECOMMENDATIONS:
“I am an adult violin student who didn’t begin receiving lessons until my mid 30s, and was unsure of how well I could learn an instrument online. May has been calm and consistent with me and I have now been learning with her guidance for over 2 years. I love the way she breaks down the techniques in to manageable steps, and guides me to learn at whatever pace I need on the day. I’ve learned during my time with May that playing the violin isn’t just about achieving a certain level of skill, it’s about connecting to your deepest self through the music and finding the enjoyment in those moments. I hope to continue learning from May for many years to come, and I’m so glad I finally took on the challenge of learning this beautiful instrument with her. I am also happy to say I am now learning to play some of the songs which moved me way back in my early childhood, and that feels pretty special. After only 2 years I am now at a stage where I miss my violin if I go away and leave it behind, which I think is a good indication that to play has become an important part of my life, and I truly have May’s continuing guidance to thank for that.”
“May is a flexible and patient teacher and balances students’ personal interests in music with technical development. She is also an accomplished violinist herself! I’d highly recommend.”
LESSON FORMAT:
Lessons are offered in 30-minute, 45-minute, or 60-minute sessions based on the student’s needs and preferences. In person or online. Discounts available when lesson packs are purchased.
CONTACT ME
If you’re interested in having lessons with me, feel free to message me via this website or send me an email at may28th7@gmail.com