FINDING THE RIGHT PRIVATE INSTRUCTOR
Finding the right private teacher is one of the most important decisions a musician and/or parent of a young musician can make.
The student/teacher relationship is crucial to the success of the young musician. It is a working relationship that may continue indefinitely and it is crucial to know everything you can about your prospective teacher. As tempting as it may be to simply find someone closest to you or who charges the least amount of money, (it is also important to make sure someone is not overcharging you if they do not have the proper credentials and qualifications!) it is vital to first ask the right questions:
Does this teacher have a degree (a private music teacher for any instrument should have at least a B.M. degree - Bachelor of Music degree - with an M.M. degree being preferable - Masters of Music)? Where from and is it a violin performance degree? Whom did this teacher study with? Does this teacher currently play professionally and in what capacity? How long has this individual taught and what method is used (for example, an individualized European approach as opposed to an “assembly line” Suzuki style approach)? Is this teacher able to do instrument repairs and adjustments and ensure that your instrument is the right instrument for you? Is this teacher a positive role model?
A private showing at Racz European Violins may be to either try an instrument; to see if a spot could be made for you in the Mr. Racz’s private teaching studio (IF you are not currently studying - any private teacher can feel confident in sending their students to Racz European Violins without that student being subjected to a “lessons sale pitch”) or both. There is no charge for a private showing.
Mr. Racz offers a unique European approach to customized private lessons. As Mr. Racz is also a composer, part of your lesson will include methods and pieces composed solely for you to improve your technique, tone and musicality. There is no charge for the initial private lesson consultation.
To
see a bio of Timoteus Racz, click HERE.
Also, check out his work with the Junior
Symphony of Vancouver and the Oregon
Chamber Players. Dear Mr. Racz, ....and you have been an amazing role model for
my son. Since he began lessons with you everything has changed in a
positive way....his grades have improved and he has even started to dress
better!... Mrs. Sargent September, 2005 "Dear Mr. Racz, Thank you for what has been a wonderful part of
my life. You have been the best violin teacher I could imagine..." David Limoges
Testimonials
Mr. Racz working with a student.
Now she is ready to perform!
Mr. Racz performing a duet with a
student.
Testimonials
Dear Mr. Racz,
Before we walked into your shop on a whim 3 years ago I had been playing
at my school and was studying privately with someone else in the area. My
lessons were uninspiring and I had been planning to quit music altogether
when my Mom and I went by your shop and decided to drop in. Even though
you were just getting ready to leave (I remember it was late at night and
we were even pleasantly surprised that you were still open) you were so
gracious to spend time with us. I didn't have my instrument with me and
you lent me one of your many violins to use and we played duos together.
You even played a special serenade just for my Mom. It was so much fun!
Plus I learned more in that half-hour or so than I had in all those years
of previous lessons. I didn't quit violin and I even stayed with my school
orchestra with your encouragement.
I am now so sorry that we are moving before the start of the school year as my Dad got a new job in Ohio. I will miss my lessons with you very much and I know it will be difficult to find a new teacher. Anyway, I wanted you to know how much I appreciate everything.
From your FAVORITE student always,
Natalie B.
(August, 2005)
Racz European
Violins
1409 C Street, Vancouver, WA 98663
(360) 695-0944
orchplayers@wans.net