VIOLA / VIOLIN / MUSICAL SAW / MUSIC THEORY
MY EXPERIENCE
Combining classical technique with folk and pop music is a huge part of my teaching style, for this reason I teach my students classical pedagogy for correct posture to avoid pain and injury, in addition to playing around with current music and improvisation. I try to adjust to each student's needs and desires, making lessons fun but at the same time implementing the right amount of constructive criticism. At USC I majored in Neuroscience which taught me novel ways to approach music and how to use your brain to its fullest potential when learning a new instrument. I have taught children as young as four to teenagers and adults–yes, adults can still learn new instruments! All of my students also learn basic music theory and ear training as part of their lessons so they will develop into well-rounded musicians.
As for my experience in playing, I began my studies when I was eight years old playing mostly classical and folk music. In high school I studied viola at New England Conservatory, focusing on classical performance, theory and orchestral practice and then for a brief time at the collegiate level at the University of Southern California Thorton School of Music. Throughout my professional career as a musician, I have played in major cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Boston, Panama City, Guatemala City, Amsterdam and Berlin. Over the years I have been a part of projects ranging from orchestras and string ensembles pop and folk bands. Currently I am focusing on writing music for film and performing in collaborative projects with artists from other disciplines, such as dance, theater and live film scoring.
THE VIOLA & TEACHING At an early age the viola stuck out to be out of all over instruments, possibly because it's sort of the 'misfit' of the string family. The viola was built to support the gut of musical pieces, the middle, which caused it to be left out of the spotlight for many centuries. In the 20th century composers began to take notice of its tone–deeper and more muted than the violin. In my personal opinion, the viola is one of the most beautiful and alluring musical instruments ever built and I encourage you to learn about its charm! My teaching style is open and friendly. I believe in positive reinforcement and constructive criticism. Being too strict makes the learning process very difficult, but being too lax will result in developing bad habits and technique. Learning how to play a string instrument is a long process, but once you've got it it's there for life. I recommend pushing through the early difficult period because it will be rewarding in the end! WORKSHOPS I also lead workshops on music theory and on the Neuroscience of music. If you are interested in having me give a talk at your venue, please contact me at morgan@morgangee.com. | I am currently teaching viola, violin and music theory at the Santa Monica Conservatory of Music in Santa Monica, CA and from my home in Echo Park.  Photo by Jedediah Johnson. VIOLA/VIOLIN/SAW LESSONS @ my home: $75/hour If you would like to schedule a lesson, please email me at morgan@morgangee.com. |
