Lessons at Opal Music Studio are charged directly from the school.

For all other lessons, payment is due on a monthly basis and must be paid by the 1st of each month. Please contact for details.

Students need to be at least 4 years old depending on their level of maturity and ability to focus. Students of all ages are welcome including adults. One is “never too old or too young to Twinkle.”

A variety of options are possible: parents may want a lesson and any number of children may take lessons. Family members and friends are welcome to observe lessons.

Absolutely not! All ages are welcome. Currently half of my studio is comprised of adult students of all ages and experience levels and some are the most eager learners of all.

Possibly, this depends on many factors. Please contact me with your situation and I will answer question on a case-by-case basis.

I teach in Northern Virginia from Opal Music in Alexandria down to Woodbridge where I live.

I use the Suzuki method as a basis for my teaching, which allows me to adapt to the needs of every child while having a common path for all students. For younger beginners, reading is delayed to allow for development of the ear and listening skills. For older beginners I incorporate reading into the lessons much sooner so they are able to keep up in school and play in orchestras. All students learn scales and basic music theory. I offer a variety of supplemental books/activities to incorporate every student into my studio on a personal basis.

Yes, it is ideal and strongly encouraged that the parent stay during each lesson until the student is a teenager and parents staying through lessons is required for students ages 8 and younger. Please do not worry if you are not a musician because all necessary information will be provided during the lessons. For more detailed information on the Suzuki method and parental involvement please see Suzuki and feel free to contact me with specific questions. 

Your own instrument is required for lessons. If you do not already have one I can recommend places to rent/buy from depending on where you live so please feel free to contact me for suggestions. While the student is growing they will require smaller instruments so renting is a good option until the student is fully grown and a full-sized instrument can be purchased. 

Regular lesson schedule and attendance is necessary for regular improvement and growth. However, I am typically able to accommodate a variety of situations as needed. Please contact with your specific needs and I will do my best to work with you.

Appropriately sized cello and bow, rockstop, rosin, pencil, music, and notebook. 

For In Home lessons, a quiet space is required and must have 2 chairs, at least 1 music stand, and good lighting.