Dombrowski Music Studio Teaching Methods
VIOLIN STUDENTS:
I use various methods to teach students because I prefer to create a personalized lesson plan for each student. My goal is that each student learns to be proficient violinist who loves and understands music! I regularly use the Suzuki and Barbara Barber books for beginner through early intermediate levels. Once at the intermediate level, students may voice his/her opinion with regard to repertoire choices, which usually ventures into traditional methods. In addition to pieces, all students work on scales and add one or more etude book(s) once they reach an intermediate level. I am a proficient pianist and I accompany students frequently during lessons, which I believe offers significant benefits to each student's musical growth. |
"By the time I came to Angie, I had been playing for several years. Unfortunately, I had not yet found a teacher who worked for me, and I was on the brink of quitting. However, from the first lesson, things were different with Angie. She was young and enthusiastic, and inspired me with her obvious talent and her supportive yet challenging way of teaching. She made me love the violin again, and by the time I graduated from high school, I was concertmaster of my high school orchestra and a member of All State Orchestra. Now, thanks to Angie, I am continuing the violin in college and hope to never give it up. I can never thank Angie enough for the friendship and mentorship she provided me, and will forever appreciate the impact she has made on my life." -Becky (former student) |
I feel strongly about teaching my students an overall musical education, which goes beyond playing their instrument. Therefore, all students work from the "Alfred's Essentials of Music Theory" books in order to teach them music theory and ear training, which I find to be exceptionally important.
ALL STUDENTS:
Along with private lessons, my curriculum includes three group lessons, three studio performance classes, and one studio recital. We also try to schedule one group performance somewhere in the metro area. For example, we have performed in the Ellie Caulkins Opera House lobby at one of the Colorado Ballet's Nutcracker shows in December. Please read below for more information regarding each activity.
ALL STUDENTS:
Along with private lessons, my curriculum includes three group lessons, three studio performance classes, and one studio recital. We also try to schedule one group performance somewhere in the metro area. For example, we have performed in the Ellie Caulkins Opera House lobby at one of the Colorado Ballet's Nutcracker shows in December. Please read below for more information regarding each activity.
- Group Lessons: three group lessons are offered per year and include students whose playing levels and ages are similar and last two hours. This class replaces each student's private lesson for the week. The classes give students the opportunity to perform for and receive feedback from their peers. Students spend the second part of the class doing various activities; for example, learning about music history (i.e., the Baroque Period with musical examples), doing music theory exercises, or working on other essential musical skills such as ear training, sight reading, and technique. Participation is mandatory.
- Performance Class: three performance classes are offered per year and allow students the opportunity to perform part of or a whole piece for peers. These are included in the monthly tuition rate. Participation is optional.
- Studio Recitals: studio recitals are scheduled in early December and early May and give students the opportunity to share their progress with family and friends in a supportive environment. Recitals also build performance skills and help students work on overcoming performance nerves and anxiety. Participation is mandatory.
- Workshops: throughout the year, I offer various workshops that work on a variety of topics. Topics include sight-reading, orchestral or chamber music, music theory, music history and ear training. The workshops last 1.5 hours and I provide all materials for the class. The fee for workshops is $25/class.