About Me:
As a teacher, I bring with me over 13 years of experience working with violinists ranging from young beginners to advanced, conservatory-level musicians. I am passionate about pedagogy, and foster a fun, productive, and confidence-building lesson environment that is tailored to each students’ individual learning style and goals. I have created my own personalized curriculum from violin schools including the Suzuki Method and Mimi Zweig, as well as that of my late mentor, the renowned violin pedagogue Shirley Givens. I teach in Brooklyn and Manhattan, as well as through Zoom to students worldwide. Schedule your free trial lesson with me today at mia.nardihuffman@gmail.com or by using the Contact tab above!
My Teaching Philosophy:
What sets my teaching apart is my dedication to each and every one of my students. Being a part of my studio is more than just attending one lesson a week; it’s also being in a community of learners with whom I am nurturing a love for music and the violin. I build strong relationships with my students and their families and am available during the week for questions, practice videos, etc. I hold multiple studio classes and recitals per year for my students to gain invaluable performance experience and foster our sense of community.
While I tailor each student’s curriculum to their individual goals and needs, here are some facets of my teaching that I employ with every student:
A fun, positive learning environment.
A thoughtful progression of exercises and repertoire for a strong technical foundation.
Development of musicality through phrasing, listening and singing.
Ear training and note-reading literacy.
Consistent practice habits, including a weekly practice log for younger learners.
Performance experience and on-stage training.
My Credentials:
In addition to maintaining a private studio since 2009, I have taught at the San Francisco Conservatory Pre-College, The Chamber Music Institute, Little Mission Studios, San Francisco’s Kipp-Bay Academy, and Inspire Music. I am currently a Teaching Artist for the Midori & Friends Foundation, and I was previously a Teaching Artist with Oakland Symphony’s MUSE program. My students have performed alongside members of the Kronos Quartet, won numerous concerto competitions, regularly participate in All-City and Honors orchestras, and gain entry to music schools and youth orchestras such as the Ruth Asawa San Francisco School of the Arts, Crowden Music Center, and Berkley Youth Orchestra. I have served as a judge for several violin competitions throughout the country, including the CAL ASTA Solo Competition and The Chamber Music Institute’s summer concerto competition. As a member of the American String Teachers Association, I also regularly attend conferences and seminars to further my own knowledge as a violin teacher.
Testimonials:
“Mia has all the warm and friendly characteristics you would hope for in a teacher of young children, as well as all the technical skill you look for in a professional. In our time with her we found her to be unfailingly lovely - an absolute gem of a teacher. If you are looking for a wonderful, friendly teacher for your child - look no further! She is fabulous.” - Victoria C.
“Mia is an incredible violin teacher! She is warm, lovely and her skill with the violin is amazing. I love her approach to music. Not only does she have amazing technique but she instills a love of music and taught our daughter the importance of the story of music, of each piece as a way to convey the unique personality of each musician. Our daughter has been studying with her for some time now and we couldn't be more happy. If you are looking for a teacher with amazing skill, technique and a warm heart. Look no further. Mia is the real deal! Highly recommended.” - Elle S.
Learning the violin is an incredibly rewarding endeavor that teaches confidence, self-discipline, creativity, and so many other life-long skills. If you would like to schedule a consultation for yourself or your child, please submit a request through the Contact form above, and I will get back to you shortly!