Violin Lessons in Rochester, MN
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Our Approach to Violin Lessons
Study a string instrument with our expert teachers at Rochester Academy of Music. Our teachers all hold university degrees in music, and structure private lessons around the student – working through repertoire from beginning to advanced levels. Children can begin studying string instruments at the age of 4. Many of our students participate in other orchestral opportunities. Contact us to learn more about our strings program!
Rochester Academy of Music is proud to offer violin lessons to people of all ages and skill levels. Our instructors love to customize lessons for each student, providing well-rounded instruction for students of any age and skill level interested in violin. Whether your goals include learning to play Romantic concerti, exploring jazz improvisation, or familiarizing yourself with fiddle tunes, our teachers can help you get there! Rochester Academy of Music teachers are passionate about creating a fun and engaging experience while providing new string players with a firm foundation to move forward.
Our instructors are fantastic people and great musicians, and many of them perform professionally in a variety of musical contexts. Their top-notch credentials and experience allow our teachers to tailor lessons for each student, covering areas including technique, fundamentals, and expression, and exploring many different musical genres.
Violin Lessons Should Be Fun!
The only thing sweeter than the sound of a violin is the experience students will have at Rochester Academy of Music. We pair the sophistication of these classic string instruments with an unwavering commitment to fun. We want each of our students to LOVE their music lessons!
Our teaching staff expertly blend a high standard of music education with a creative, student-focused approach that gives students space to discover and nurture their passion for music and the violin. Whether you’re looking to pick up the instrument for the first time or want to earn the first chair in your orchestra, our teachers are ready to help you progress quickly toward your goals – while having fun along the way.
We Emphasize Healthy Technique
Strong fundamentals are key to efficient, effortless playing and optimal sound. We teach students essential instrument care and set-up, tuning, healthy playing posture, bowing, and hand positioning. Our skilled instructors also take students through regular ear training exercises to foster the development of good pitch.
Additionally, we strive to ensure our students become literate musicians through lessons in scales, music theory, rhythm, and sight-reading. More advanced students will build a broader repertoire of technique, including vibrato, double-stop and chord playing; more advanced bow strokes such as spiccato, sautillé, and up-bow staccato; and other higher-level musicianship concepts such as phrase analysis and score studying skills.
We Care About Your Musical Interests
At Rochester Academy of Music, we are delighted to work with students of all abilities seeking to enrich their lives through music. Our teachers take an individualized approach to each student – underpinned by detailed individual assessments, a thorough and logical sequence of skill development and training, and one-on-one guidance throughout your musical journey.
Your experience at Rochester Academy of Music Music will be uniquely yours. Come and learn from our talented instructors, many of whom can connect you with performance and competitive opportunities, should you wish to pursue your craft on a larger stage.
Our Violin Teacher:
Our qualified instructors often participate in public performance and possess significant academic credentials. Their experience enables them to customize their instruction for each student, covering areas including technique, fundamentals and expression.

John Shea
Piano, Voice, Woodwinds, Brass, Strings
John describes himself as detailed, punctual and positive. He is originally from Northeast Iowa, and he graduated with a Bachelor of Music in Instrumental and Classroom Music Education from the University of
We offer a variety of plans to fit your schedule & budget
Weekly 30 Min
$140
month
Great for learning the basics and building strong foundations.
Weekly 60 Min
$280
month
Longer lessons, great for motivated musicians.
What you can expect
1. Tell us about your musical goals.
2. Match with one of our expert instructors.
3. Play music! Parents get progress reports.
Common Questions

Stacy League | Parent
“My children have really benefited from their music lessons. All of the teachers they’ve had and the office staff are professional, competent and kind. I would definitely recommend Rochester Academy of Music to anyone!”