Music lessons in NOVA

[Anonymous]

I’m wondering where to begin looking for excellent private instrument instruction (probably piano and/or violin, maybe cello) for my kids. My kids are still too young to start lessons, but when they do I want them to have a good foundation from the beginning. Is there an excellent community music school around where they can also learn theory, play chamber music/in an orchestra (once they’re at that level) and have some camaraderie too?

For context, was a very serious violinist from age 5 through after college (studied at Manhattan School of Music Precollege and majored in music in college), but I grew up in the NY area so I am unfamiliar with the situation here. Without being a stage mom/tiger mom, I want my kids to love classical music as much as I do and I know how important quality instruction is in fostering that love. I also know how damaging someone who is too tough on young kids can be, so picking the right teachers is super important to me.

[Anonymous]

Where are you located for starters?

Given the age of your kids, rather than look for a community music school specifically you should visit the Suzuki Teachers Association website and search for experienced Suzuki teachers near you in whichever instruments you wind up choosing. Eventually your children would then be old enough for the youngest level of American Youth Philharmonic (AYPO). But I would first stress an excellent instructor who teaches correct technique over anything else.

In terms of music schools, the main one in this area that I know of with a NoVA location and some Suzuki teachers is Levine. But I can’t speak to it having no experience there. A lot of the bigger name teachers work privately outside of music schools. I’m sure others can chime in here!

[Anonymous]

Levine is biggest school. Foxes also offers lessons but best instructors typically work on their own. Some of the regional youth orchestras post lists of private instructors, so you could start there.

[Anonymous]

Levine has both suzuki and other lesson tracks.

[Anonymous]

Mason Community Arts Academy if you're closer to Fairfax.

[Anonymous]

Stephanie Flack in Alexandria is perfect for young kid. My daughter has been with her since 5 . She is teaching in SuzuKi method.