Well, even though it was one of the hottest days of the summer (at least here in NYC), and I am definitely still more inclined to sneak in another beach day over having anything with pumpkin spice in it, the fall semester at the Aaron Copland School of Music has begun. This year marks the start of my 13th year working at Queens College- with my first few years starting out as a graduate teaching assistant while I did my DMA, eventually becoming an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Viola. I am excited about the work that I will be getting to do with my students this year. I find it exciting to see what they have been able to accomplish on their own during the summer months, and I am always eager to hear what goals they come in with at the beginning of the school year. I am excited to see what sort of progress they will be making in the months ahead.
I am also excited to see what sort of year my private students will have. Lately I have had the distinct privilege of working with a few adult students– students who are up and coming in their own professional careers or are working full time as string teachers, looking to continue working on their technique or expanding on their musical ideas. I have been finding this work very rewarding lately, as I am to get into great detail that I am not always able to do with my younger students.
For any serious violists interested, I do have a couple of openings for new students for this year in my private studio. Currently, I am available for lessons in Queens in person, or online. While much of my studio is currently in the college or young adult crowd, I am open to taking on serious high schoolers, particularly those who are looking to prepare for college auditions in the next few years. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you are interested!
Gregory K. Williams 