• Undergrad:

• Grad 1:

  Masters, Boston University

• Tutors Out Of:

  Allston, MA

• Travel Radius:

  10 miles

• Tutoring Certifications:

  music history - music theory - piano - sight singing - violin

• Tutor's Fee Per Hour:

  $40.50 * with a 10% discount after purchasing $360

On May 18, 2008, I graduated Summa Cum Laude from a Masters degree in Violin Performance from Boston University. I completed my Bachelors in South Africa, and graduated with distinction in 2004, as well as being awarded the top string prize, the Gerry Meyer string award, and the Alfred Libochowitz performance award. In 2006 I completed an Honors degree (in Violin Performance) from the University of Cape Town.
During my undergrad studies I was asked to tutor aural skills and ear training at the University, and also taught violin part-time at three schools in the area; the Hugo Lambrechts Music School, Sans Souci Girls High School, and Rondebosch East Primary School. I coached a small string ensemble group at these schools as well.
I have taken part in many national competitions, and in 2002 was placed first in the DISTELL National Competition held in Stellenbosch. In 1999 I won the silver medal in the ATKV - Prelude Competition, and in 2000 I won the bronze medal in the ABSA National High Schools Competition.
In 2004 I was asked to perform with Josh Groban during his tour to Cape Town, and in 2005 I performed at Sir Elton John's AIDS benefit held at the Vergelegen Wine Estate.

I have had a lot of experience training young musicians in practical musicianship, as well as the theoretical and historical side of music. I have a great passion for teaching and encouraging students to develop and master their skills.

Email this tutor in Allston, MA!

• music history

  Throughout my High School career I took music as a subject, and was therefore expected to take at least 5 years of Music History. I continued my studies through University as this was once again a requirement, and although after 3 years this subject became an elective, I continued doing research into the historical background of composers and compositions as I found it to be particularly interesting and useful in understanding and interpreting the pieces I learnt and performed. Understanding where music has come from and why things were written adds another dimension to the actual music.

• music theory

  Theory is crucial for ALL musicians. Without the clear understanding of how harmonies and melodies work together, as well as individually, musical understanding can be completely lost. It is vital that musicians have a good grasp of theory in order to excel at their instruments. Throughout High School I took both piano and violin as subjects, therefore having to take theory and history as well (along with aural training). In University I took 3 years of compulsory theory, and in my forth year I decided I would like to take an extra year of harmony, which included extended harmonic techniques. During my Masters degree I completed a course in 20th Century Harmony, as well as a review course, which covered almost everything I had previously done. Although probably not the most enjoyable subject for many students, theory is indispensable!

• piano

  My dad is a pianist, and I can remember always wanting to be able to sit on that piano chair next to him and play the way he did. I begged him to teach me, and at the ge of 6 he decided that I was now ready to receive my first piano lesson. I took piano from age 6 through to age 18. I won eistedfodds and minor competitions, bringing home shiny silver trophies that I was always proud of. Recently I have been using my piano skills to aid theory lessons, or to accompany my violin students, but I would love to teach some actual piano students.

• sight singing

  I know this to be a subject that a lot of young musicians struggle with, and experience a lot of fear towards. I went through 2 formal years of training during my undergrad, and then was asked to tutor this subject - along with aural training - for another 3 years at my undergrad University in South Africa. The knowledge of intervals and rhythm are key factors in good sight-singing. I will be able to train and offer helpful tips for students wanting extra help and practice in this area of music.

• violin

  I have been playing the violin since I was 7 years old. I fell in love with the instrument at the age of 5 when I saw a violinist on TV. I have 3 University Degrees in Violin Performance, and for all of them I graduated with the highest distinction. Violin and music is my absolute passion. I cannot imagine my life without them. I hope to pass my love for this intrument on to all my students, encouraging them to achieve the best they can!

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  Excellent violin tutor

  Today is my first lesson with Katherine. I love it. I like her teaching for the following reasons: 1. Effective methodology to teach violin for beginnger level student like me. 2. Passion for the teaching. 3. Detail oriented. 4. Excellent notes system throughout the lesson. Good assignment of the homework. 5. Making learning process interesting based on student's ability for learning. 6. Respectful manner. Although it's quite distance for the class location, I still would like to keep Katherine as my violin instructor as it's very hard to find good tutor like Katherine. Thanks for referring Katherine as my violin tutor. Sally

  -Sally Y. from Boston, MA About Katherine Y.
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  Good lesson!

  Thanks again for the lesson. Katherine taught me from the foundation and also she made learning process very interesting. I love her class. Thanks. Sally

  -Sally Y. from Boston, MA About Katherine Y.
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  I love the lesson

  Katherine again provided me very good lesson. I'm so looking forward to her next lesson. Sally

  -Sally Y. from Boston, MA About Katherine Y.
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  Great class

  Thanks for the fun class. I've learned a lot. Thanks. Sally

  -Sally Y. from Boston, MA About Katherine Y.
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  Good class

  I'm looking forward for the next class eargerly.

  -Sally Y. from Boston, MA About Katherine Y.
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  Excellent teacher

  I'm looking forward to Katherine's future classes. Thanks for referring such good teacher.

  -Sally Y. from Boston, MA About Katherine Y.
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  Excellent instructor

  Never before I would like to take violin so desperately as I learned a lot from Katherine. She is an excellent violin instrutor. She never let my mistakes slips away. I like her professional dicipline. Thanks. Sally

  -Sally Y. from Boston, MA About Katherine Y.