Vicky Westerfield, Master's Degree, 15 Years Experience

Violin lessons for any age or playing level. I can teach during the day, evening, or weekend (not Sundays). I have a place that I currently teach in Tigard and Clackamas. I am willing to travel when neccessary.

I received my Master's degree in violin performance from the University of Arizona in 2002. I have had over 15 years experience in teaching. Most of my students have progressed very rapidly. I can work with children as young as 3 years. I have also had many adult students.

I enjoy teaching the Suzuki method, however, I am open to other methods, or supplementing with other pieces. I like to teach theory, ear-training, history, and anything else I can fit in. I believe that students get the most from their music if they have an understanding of what they are playing and where it fits into the musical world.

I will give 1 lesson for free to see if we work well together. I would like to add that I can be flexible for students that will work very hard and be dedicated but family finances would normally prevent them from taking lessons. I don't think money should stand in the way of someone really wanting to learn a great art. I would rather have many students paying less than the going rate than a few paying a higher amount. I want to be involved in as many students lives as possible because it also brings me great joy to see them advance.

My history: I started lessons at 12 and loved to play, often practicing 4-8 hours per day. I advanced rapidly (probably because I did nothing but practice!) and eventually got into the Portland Youth Philharmonic where I stayed until I was 21. During that time, I competed in many area competitions, often receiving at least 3rd place and often higher. I competed in the State Solo contests every year. I played in all the high school advanced groups (All-State and All-Northwest and many others). I also traveled around quite a bit: Japan, Germany, Mexico, Canada, and all around the U.S. with different groups or on different scholarships to different art camps. I also got the chance to play with the Oregon Symphony while in high school. I received a full-ride scholarship to Mt. Hood where I was the concertmaster for 2 years. Then I went on to Arizona where I also received a full-ride for my Bachelor's and Master's degrees. While there I played with the Tucson Pops and Symphony as a sub. I also played in several special groups while attending the university, including operas, chamber ensembles, and held principal chairs for almost every concert. I have finally come back home.

If you would like to read more about my background, check out my About Me page.