Cincinnati Violin Lessons

Introduction: I am Melanie Mason, a violin and viola instructor. Teaching Philosophy: I want to provide a fun and nurturing environment in order to study, but at the same time, instilling a healthy work ethic in my students. I want them to determine that hard work yields a result. I utilize a combination of Sassmannshaus, Suzuki, and traditional lesson plans, getting the best from all three, and tailor-making the lessons to fit the individual student's needs. I am certified in all the violin books of Sassmannshaus Tradition. With the use of my website's customized options, and my rigorous lesson plans, my students' musicianship and technique grow naturally and steadily. I am excited to take your violin or viola playing to the next level! Bio: I grew up in a musical household, and took up piano lessons at the age of 7. In 5th grade, I started studying viola in my primary school orchestra. In high school, I went to the Governor's School for the Arts in Norfolk, Virginia, where I was first chair in the orchestra and learned with Raymond Pancarowitz and Anastasia Migliozzi. In my final year of high school, I went for viola to The Manhattan School of Music Preparatory Department where I studied with Jonathan Strasser and Stanley Bednar. I have my Artist Diploma in viola performance, Bachelors of Music, and Masters of Music from the Conservatory of Music in University of Cincinnati College where I studied with Maaso Kawasaki and Dr. Catherine Carroll. I also went to the Aspen Music Festival for 3 summers and learned from Karen Ritscher, Masao Kawasaki, and Dr. Catherine Carroll. While obtaining my Artist Diploma, I was first chairperson of the Conservatory of Music Philharmonia in Cincinnati College.  While not playing the viola, I'm training with Patrick Higgins, studying how to make and repair violas and violins, and setting up violins and violas at Antonio Violins. I have been teaching for 5 years and love working with students from 3-year-old beginners the whole way up to adult advanced and beginners students.