About Me
Hello, I'm Eleanor, and my musical journey began at a young age, growing up surrounded by the melodies and rhythms of a musical household. Both of my parents are music teachers, fostering my passion for the art. At the age of 8, I started my formal training in music with violin lessons at the Moorestown School of Music. Simultaneously, I joined the Philadelphia Girls Choir, where I dedicated nine years of my life to honing my vocal skills.
Throughout my high school years, I served as a student conductor and concert master for the MHS orchestra, showcasing my dedication to musical leadership. My involvement in regional and all-state orchestras and choirs, as well as the Moorestown Madrigals Chamber Choir, enriched my musical experiences. Currently I am pursuing a degree in music education at Rowan University, with a focus on violin performance through a CUGS degree. I actively participate in various university ensembles, including the concert choir, voces, orchestra, collegium, and opera company.
My teaching philosophy is deeply rooted in the Suzuki method for violin instruction, emphasizing the importance of early exposure and nurturing a supportive learning environment. Additionally, I incorporate Kodaly and Feierabend methods in my vocal and general music teachings. When not immersed in my studies or performances at school, I enjoy collaborating with my musical parents—my father, an organist/pianist, and my mother, a talented harpist and singer. I am passionate about sharing the joy of music and fostering a love for learning in my students.
"I am passionate about sharing the joy of music and fostering a love for learning in my students."
When did you start playing music, what brought you to it?
I was drawn to music from the earliest moments of my childhood. My parents noticed my innate musicality as I played notes on the piano and sang along to my favorite Disney songs. Eager to nurture this interest, they enrolled me in baby music classes at Temple University with Natasha Sigmund. These early experiences laid the foundation for my deep connection to music.
At the age of 8, I embarked on a more formal musical journey by taking violin lessons, marking the beginning of my instrumental training. Soon after, I joined my first choir, initiating my exploration into vocal expression. These early encounters with music not only shaped my skills but also instilled in me a profound love for the art form that continues to drive my musical pursuits today.
What other instruments, aside from the ones you teach, have you played before?
I love messing around with Guitar and Mandolin. They are similar but also very different from violin. I have also played trumpet, though I don't have the best tone on that. It is much different from singing!
What style(s) of music do you like to play the most? Why?
Romantic Era Classical Music. Singing it and Playing it just takes all of my soul and essence to produce. Its filled with so many different emotions, woven through all the melodies and texts found in the music.
What is a musical obstacle that you remember overcoming? How did you overcome it?
At one point in high school, I wasn't sure if I wanted to continue learning the violin. I was stuck in a funk because I felt like I wasn't really getting anywhere, feeling like I never got better at the pieces I was assigned. I decided to overcome this funk by listening to more music and looking at the scores and attempting to play some of those sections. It was a fun experiment, although far from perfect. It taught me to put adventure back into my music study rather than trying to learn and perfect the same piece over and over again.
What are some of your favorite teaching moments?
Explaining things in various ways is often necessary for comprehension. Teaching becomes challenging when you struggle to articulate a concept. The most rewarding moment is when the unconventional metaphor used to explain a technique finally clicks, creating a shared understanding, and students seamlessly embody the concept.
What are some musical goals you hope to achieve?
My musical goals include performing in major global music halls, producing my own album, and mastering multiple string instruments.
What advice could you give to someone who has just begun learning music?
Listen. Listen to as much music as you can. Listen to the music you're learning. Listen to the music you dream to play one day.