Music lessons in Berlin

Toby is an outstanding instructor and works with children very naturally. My 11 year old son has been taking lessons with Toby for over two months and is eager for each lesson. Toby is extremely talented, but beyond that, he engages my son deeply with the music itself, fundamental techniques, music theory, and even the interpretation of the music. Toby is kind, encouraging, and works with students at a level that is appropriate. He has allowed my son to chose music that if fun and interesting to practice, even though the pieces are challenging. We are located many time zones away from Toby, and the virtual lessons do not hinder our experience with him. In fact, I often sit in to listen to the lessons, as they are so good. My son has had a couple of lessons with Toby while company has been over, and everyone has commented on how amazing Toby is as an instructor. I can not recommend Toby enough and hope to continue lessons with him for a long time.

I’m so lucky that I was able to have lessons with Jack during my time in Berlin! He creates such a supportive environment for learning — laid back and calm, yet totally professional. After years of me struggling independently with a few pieces, he was able to show me new ways of approaching the music that transformed even the hardest parts into something accessible. He has a lovely and genuine way of offering encouragement / recognizing progress, while still keeping track of the underlying objective; a more far-reaching arc of improvement. I like how he remembers this larger perspective from week to week (especially when I forget), and finds ways to expertly weave the end goal into incremental, manageable steps. I have learned so much from the tools and techniques he’s shared with me, and am grateful to have enjoyed his teaching.

Usha is a world-class violinist and violin teacher! I studied from a young age and through college at a relatively high level, but had to put it down for many years once I started working. Usha has helped me relearn the fundamentals with good habits and regain confidence as a performing artist. I love how creatively she tackles complex problems, and how her violin lessons--though focused on music and technique--seem to involve big life lessons as well. I look forward to continuing to study with Usha!