Teaching
In the past 10 years of teaching in the Chicago and Boston area, I have worked with many students from ages 3-70, of diverse backgrounds, and different learning styles. I have had the pleasure of helping students achieve their goals by winning competitions and state auditions as well as helping older adults rediscover their love for music.
"Ms Su is encouraging, knowledgeable, professional, humorous, and respectful towards her students. She has also been very flexible with the variety of music my son likes to try. "
- Jessica P.
"Always supportive and genuinely encouraging, Ms Su introduced techniques, musical concepts, and complex rhythms that helped J. go from plateau to plateau in her playing."
- Steven S.
“Su Yin provided on target, helpful input regarding my technical issues. I am confident that Su Yin can help any student from beginner to advanced to improve their playing significantly.” - Jean P.
Teaching Philosophy
1) Development of active learning and listening
While learning a new technique, think logically about physical mechanisms and be active in finding solutions or asking questions in the lesson. Beyond the technique, immersing oneself in all aspects of the music such as discovering the expression of the music through composer background, historic context, and finding the relationship between various disciplines are essential to being a well-rounded musician.
2) Emphasis on ease with instrument
Tension in the body is one of the main challenges violinists face while practicing and performing. Incorrect posture can not only make playing unpleasant, but also lead to health and back pain issues in the long run.
I feel fortunate to have learned of the Tuttle Method which focuses on the freedom of movement and balance while playing the violin. This freedom is essential to creating a beautiful sound and executing difficult techniques on the violin.
3) Encompassing music education
While scales, etudes, and the exploration of solo and chamber music repertoire make up the core of the lesson, I also like to incorporate music theory, music history, basic keyboard and ear training skills in my lessons. These tools prepare the student to learn independently and understand the music when there is no teacher present.
4) Exploring music that excites and inspires
Although I specialize in classical music, I welcome my students to explore and bring other musical styles and genres to the lesson. Music is music, and I believe no one style or genre stands on its own. The understanding of other genres and also instruments enhances one's musical perspective.
5) Performing and sharing music
Being on stage can be daunting for anyone, however it is also the best place to learn. I encourage all my students to perform and practice performing whether it may be on a stage, for their families, or even sending digital recordings to their loved ones! A lot can be learned from self presentation, preparation and focus leading up to the performance, as well as seeing the impact your music can bring to your audience.