About Me
My Background
Welcome!
My name is Monica. From a young age I loved music and by 9 years old I felt espeically drawn to the fiddle and to folk music. At 10 I joined the Adirandack Fiddlers Association where I was mentored by many wonderful old-time fiddle players. Throughout the years I had several talented mentors and teachers come along side me in my musical endevers. When I was a teenager I started playing in a bluegrass band. Since then, I have enjoyed playing at various jams, open mics, weddings and performing with several bands, and working on my own music recording projects. With over 15 years of experince, I was excited to start my new journey of teaching and launched Fiddle Jive Studio in 2023.
Sharing my Passion
Before launching Fiddle Jive, I was an elementary teacher. Having a background in the education field has equiped me in developing my own pedogogy. No learner is to young or seasoned to develope a new skill. I am passionate about finding tools to help support each student's unique learning style.
The fiddle is an amazing and diverse instrument in that it can evoke a whole range or emotion. It can bring a tear to the eye by its beautiful tone and also put a spring in your step by its vibrance and energy!
I am often asked, "What is the difference between a voilin and a fiddle?" to which I reply, "Violins sing and fiddles dance."
Playing the fiddle has brought me so much joy over the years and I greatly enjoy fostering a love for music in others!
Lessons
At Fiddle Jive Studio I offer lessons for all ages and various levels. My non-traditional approach promotes builing skills to learn music by ear by incorporating tool sets to break music down into uncomplicated terms with less emphasis on music theory. The skill of playing music by ear opens up countless opporutunities to play in all kinds of settings without relying on traditional sheet music. My goal as a teacher is to make learning fun and enjoyable for everyone!
If you are unsure about which level is appropriate or you, I offer a complimentary lesson!