Teaching Philosophy

I had the great honor of studying with Jeff Irvine and Heidi Castleman during my college years. Their words, guidance and analytical observations still ring in my ears! I continue to be inspired by legendary teachers Karen Tuttle, Paul Roland, Ivan Galamian, Roland and Almita Vamos and others. I have been teaching for almost 50 years and I am still learning! I believe we all want to be the best possible musicians because we love music deeply. In order to play music at a high level and become a professional musician we must first become a fine violist. This is a journey that takes many years of dedicated practice, instruction and performance. It is important the viola is approached with balance, relaxation, discipline, self-awareness and a passionate desire to become the best possible interpreter of a composer’s music. I am excited to work with individuals who are interested and committed to a journey of discovery! What an amazing and rewarding path you are embarking on! Choosing the viola as the vehicle is simply incredible.

During your undergraduate degree it is an important time to build technique and begin to learn orchestral excerpts and repertoire. Relaxation and balance are at the heart of left and right hand function. It is vital there is a basic understanding of the mechanics of the bow arm and hand. Learning and applying collé in the right hand is imperitive for the development of a sophisticated technique. Left hand reliability, flexibility, intonation and vibrato must be examined, understood and practiced consistently. Beauty and flexibility of tone are developed in each hand and between the hands - in the way they work together. Learning to envision, create and execute interpretive skills is most important!  But this will only be achieved with a healthy approach to playing. Awareness and understanding are at the heart of learning. I often say that realizing you have a problem (tension or bad habits) is the first step to healing!

As a graduate student it is important to refine your skills and determine a clear path forward for your career. Whether you choose to continue on to a Doctoral Program, a professional orchestral career, a chamber music emphasis, a teaching career in public schools or in a college setting-- the goal during your master’s program is the same. Use this time to become the best possible musician and violist you can be! This is a key period to examine your technique and determine what needs addressing and improving. Practicing at least 4 hours per day is important for meaningful progress! This is a special time and two years will pass quickly. I truly encourage an intensive study of pedagogy, chamber music, analysis, interpretation, orchestral excerpts and repertoire.

Since 2007 Professor Consiglio’s technique book for violists has been in use at the Julliard School and the Julliard Preparatory Division by Heidi Castleman and is published through WSU. It is also important to note that while studying at WSU students are eligible to apply for a Koch Cultural Trust Grant. Grants of up to $5000 can be awarded three times. This is an incredible opportunity to fund summer festival opportunities and even upgrade instruments and bows.