Instructors
Who we are
We, Kimwell and Grace, a husband-wife team, just moved from BC to Alberta to pursue an opportunity to start a Strings Program at Airdrie Christian Academy, school year 2024-2025.
Grace has a 22-year experience as a Concertmaster for two Orchestras, namely Manila Symphony Orchestra in the Philippines and New Westminster Symphony Orchestra in BC, Canada. Grace also was involved in nurturing young string players at the Philippine Research For Developing Instrumental Soloists (PREDIS) as an instructor and conductor of the group's different ensembles.
Kimwell graduated in Violin performance at the Vancouver Academy Of Music and pursued various styles of performances. From orchestra playing, cruise ship string ensemble, music directing, arranging and performing for concerts to heading church music groups, Kimwell's exposure to different music genres has enriched his violin playing. Kimwell also pursued recording studies and finished the course at Art Institute Vancouver becoming a Certified Recording Engineer.
Our desire is to share and impart our musical expertise and experience to everyone in a fun and engaging way. It is also our goal to start Airdrie's own Youth Symphony Orchestra.
We started our own online platform where we take advantage of modern technology to augment our violin teaching and facilitate student practicing. Merging our expertise in violin playing and teaching with our grasp of modern technology, Fingerobics YouTube Channel was created. Our teaching approach combines Traditional violin literature with Suzuki Violin Method, and RCM Violin Method, mixed with custom arrangements of modern and well loves songs that fit our students' levels and goals.
Violin Lessons Overview
Beginners
All beginners will start with 30-minute lessons. We recommend instrument rental to start with as kids will go through various sizes throughout their learning. We offer instrument rentals from our own collection but there are other rental places you can go to. Lessons will be in blocks of 6 sessions. A LESSON CARD with 6 sessions will be provided where we sign every end of a session. We will print the materials (already included in the fees) and also send you digital copies for your convenience.
Prior Instruction
Students with prior violin instruction will be assessed and discussed with the parents and/or student on how to proceed with lessons. Usually we suggest 45-minute lessons but will depend on what the student's goals are. Music materials will be taken cared of by the student. Supplemental studies created by us, will be printed free of charge. Lessons will be in blocks of 6 sessions. A LESSON CARD with 6 sessions will be provided where we sign every end of a session.
Adult Violin Course
Kimwell will personalize a course depending on the goal and expectations of the adult (beginner at 18 years old above) student. Length and frequency of lesson will also be customized according to the goal and availability of the student. Essential principles of good violin playing will be integrated to simple, fun exercises using easy to learn patterns. All materials will be accompanied by digital video resources at Fingerobics YouTube Channel to facilitate personal practice sessions.
Venue Of Instruction
We go to teach at residence of the student. There's an option to hold it at Inspire Airdrie for a little added cost.
Frequency Of Lessons
A typical once (1x) a week is a starter even though twice (2x) a week can be beneficial to a beginner who can put in the time to take lessons and practice. For students with prior violin instruction, it will be discussed on how often lessons will be depending on the goal of the student.
Recital/ Performances
As we are just starting here in Airdrie, we're looking at having at least once (1x) a year public performance. Venue, dates and costs are TBD.
Group/ Ensembles
Being part of a group/ ensemble is an essential part of growing as a violinist. We will pursue this as soon as possible and will offer it as soon as we have enough kids to have sustainable group sessions.
Piano Lessons
Both of us have Piano as our secondary instrument. We both teach Piano beginners up until RCM Level 5. Our preference of piano method though is Faber and Faber's Piano Adventures.
Promotions
We will give discounted rates for siblings if they have adjacent lesson schedules. A student will get one (1) free lesson for every referral of another student who opts for their first LESSON CARD (6 lessons).
