Lessons
I teach private fiddle lessons for beginners and intermediate players and I truly believe everyone can play the fiddle!
If you've never played the fiddle (or any instrument) before I can get you started in a fun, non-intimidating way. If you've been playing for a while and are feeling stuck, I'm happy to help give you a new perspective and move forward! I'm interested in advancing towards your goals - whether it's going to a jam, playing in a band, or just learning a new skill.
Please email me for scheduling: robin.r.fischer [at] gmail.com
If you've never played the fiddle (or any instrument) before I can get you started in a fun, non-intimidating way. If you've been playing for a while and are feeling stuck, I'm happy to help give you a new perspective and move forward! I'm interested in advancing towards your goals - whether it's going to a jam, playing in a band, or just learning a new skill.
Please email me for scheduling: robin.r.fischer [at] gmail.com
Fiddle Lesson FAQ
What age do you teach?
I teach adults and kids! Usually I take ages 5 and up, but will consider students under 5 who are very passionate about music.
What kind of fiddle do you teach?
I specialize in old time and bluegrass fiddling, but also enjoy teaching material from other fiddling traditions.
What do I need to take fiddle lessons?
You'll need a fiddle and bow, rosin, and a tuner or tuning ap. I also recommend a binder to keep things organized.
Can I have a lesson in person?
Yes! In-person lessons are back on.
Can I have a zoom lesson?
I am not taking on new zoom lessons at this time.
Are there opportunities to perform as a student?
YES! I am proud to teach in a community with so many performance opportunities for students - our annual student concert at the Freight and Salvage, plus busking day in San Francisco, open mics, square dance, and opening the Berkeley Old Time Music String Band Contest.
Are there opportunities to jam as a student?
Yes! I run student jams once a month - one for kids, one for teens, and one old time jam for anyone up for playing at "adult level". Jams rock and students are encouraged to come play tunes with others, hear what other folks are playing, build confidence, and create community.
Can we talk on the phone about setting up lessons?
I'm thrilled to email about lessons, goals, etc, before you sign up, but do not do phone calls before setting up lessons.
Do you teach with sheet music or teach classical violin?
I do not use sheet music or teach classical violin. All of my lessons are taught by ear, and materials are provided to support practicing and memorizing at home. If the student needs tab, I am happy to provide it, with the end goal of moving towards all audio or video materials.
What's the deal with music theory? That sounds scary.
I love, love, love teaching practical, simple music theory as it applies to bluegrass, old time, and other fiddle styles. Knowing how scales, chords, and other musical elements work together will help you learn faster, improvise, understand your instrument on a deeper level, and be a all-around better fiddler.
Do you teach group lessons?
I only teach one-on-one lessons.
I teach adults and kids! Usually I take ages 5 and up, but will consider students under 5 who are very passionate about music.
What kind of fiddle do you teach?
I specialize in old time and bluegrass fiddling, but also enjoy teaching material from other fiddling traditions.
What do I need to take fiddle lessons?
You'll need a fiddle and bow, rosin, and a tuner or tuning ap. I also recommend a binder to keep things organized.
Can I have a lesson in person?
Yes! In-person lessons are back on.
Can I have a zoom lesson?
I am not taking on new zoom lessons at this time.
Are there opportunities to perform as a student?
YES! I am proud to teach in a community with so many performance opportunities for students - our annual student concert at the Freight and Salvage, plus busking day in San Francisco, open mics, square dance, and opening the Berkeley Old Time Music String Band Contest.
Are there opportunities to jam as a student?
Yes! I run student jams once a month - one for kids, one for teens, and one old time jam for anyone up for playing at "adult level". Jams rock and students are encouraged to come play tunes with others, hear what other folks are playing, build confidence, and create community.
Can we talk on the phone about setting up lessons?
I'm thrilled to email about lessons, goals, etc, before you sign up, but do not do phone calls before setting up lessons.
Do you teach with sheet music or teach classical violin?
I do not use sheet music or teach classical violin. All of my lessons are taught by ear, and materials are provided to support practicing and memorizing at home. If the student needs tab, I am happy to provide it, with the end goal of moving towards all audio or video materials.
What's the deal with music theory? That sounds scary.
I love, love, love teaching practical, simple music theory as it applies to bluegrass, old time, and other fiddle styles. Knowing how scales, chords, and other musical elements work together will help you learn faster, improvise, understand your instrument on a deeper level, and be a all-around better fiddler.
Do you teach group lessons?
I only teach one-on-one lessons.