Violin, viola

Dennis is a full-time general music teacher in Philadelphia, and he enjoys making music accessible to all. He teaches students from kindergarten to 8th grade.

 

Dennis earned a bachelor’s degree in music education with a violin concentration from Temple University. Over the years, he has studied under notable violinists from the Philadelphia Orchestra including Barbara Sonies, Booker Rowe, and Joe Lanaza.

 

In addition to teaching, Dennis has performed at distinguished venues in and around New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, including Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Kimmel Center (Verizon Hall and Perelman Theater), Sovereign Performing Arts Center, Rutgers Performing Arts Center, Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, Centennial Hall at Haverford School, and the Broadway Theater in Pitman, New Jersey.  

 

Dennis currently performs with the Old York Road Symphony and the Blackbird Society Orchestra.

 

Q & A with Dennis

 

How did you get into music?

Music has always been an important part of my life. My favorite instrument when I was a young child was a large electronic keyboard. I would spend hours pressing random keys and maybe even improvised a short melody. Then from the age of 10, I began taking free violin lessons at my school. I continued playing violin all the way through high school and decided upon graduation that I wanted to pursue a career in music.

 

What's your teaching style? 

As Chief Gusteau said in the movie “Ratatouille,” “Anyone can cook." Now, I truly understand what he meant. Not everyone can become a great artist, but a great artist can come from anywhere. Anyone can learn to play an instrument at any age. You will never be too old. And with dedicated passion and practice, you can become a great performer. With this in mind, my clear teaching methodology focuses on building good habits and strengthening those that could be better. The goal, in the end, is to be able to play oncreasingly difficult music all the while sounding beautiful on your instrument.

 

What advice would you give to new musicians?

Practice makes perfect! Learning an instrument is something that takes dedication. Don’t be afraid and don’t think you won’t be able to learn how. Just know that progress comes over time and not overnight.

 

Share a fun fact about yourself.

I am an avid Trekkie! 🖖