Discipline and compassion

I teach technique and theory right from the beginning, and I teach students to read music as soon as possible. I feel good technique is essential for everyone wanting to play. Before students can put feeling into their music, they have to be able to play in time and in tune. However, technique is learned not just through exercises but also through learning delightful and satisfying songs. This is, after all, why a person wants to play the violin.

I am also aware how difficult this instrument can be. It is necessary to create a safe atmosphere in which to learn, a space in which a student can make mistakes, stretch and grow, free of harsh criticism.

I have studied the Leopold Auer Technique, Galamian Technique, and Advanced Artists Technique; I also teach the Suzuki Book as well as using duet and scale books, all building toward etudes and concertos. These are all excellent teaching tools, but nothing is as helpful as being able to listen to the student and knowing what he or she needs in order to improve at each stage of development.

My experience includes 30 years of orchestral work, including 1st violin, Principal 2nd violin, concert mistress, soloist, and music director. Ensemble playing is, of course, the most likely goal of the majority of violinists. I teach all the major orchestral literature using bowing and fingering from a variety of exciting conductors. It is a joy to work with students on their school ensemble work, and I regularly teach by playing duets with my students.

LETTER FROM A PARENT:
Ann Dunn has been my daughter’s violin teacher for the last three and a half years. During this time, Shavit’s violin playing improved beyond measure. Ann taught her proper bowing technique, as well as, advanced fingering that vastly enhanced the sound Shavit makes when she plays. Ann is sensitive to her students’ abilities and interests. She challenges them to stretch their knowledge and expand their musical repertoire. She is a demanding teacher, who increases gradually the musical pieces sophistication level to keep the students always engaged. My daughter loves her violin lessons and is very proud of her achievements. This year she auditioned and was accepted into a high school string orchestra, despite being a 6th grader! She also became the Concertmaster of her middle school string orchestra. During the last two years of her elementary school she was accepted into and performed with the All Schools Honor Orchestra at UCLA! Ann Dunn is a caring teacher, who encourages her students to play their best. We credit Shavit’s demonstrated success to Ann’s fabulous violin teaching skills.!!!!!
Dr. Vered Mirmovich, Culver City, CA