Welcome to
Online Viola Lessons
I'm Bernard Kane, and I’m passionate about helping students of all levels discover the joy of playing the viola. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen your skills, my lessons are designed to meet you where you are and guide you toward your musical goals.
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Lessons Tailored To You
Hello, my name is Bernard Kane, I have been playing the violin and viola since before I was a teenager and have an absolute passion for music. I absolutely adore inspiring others to play music. I studied at the Royal College of Music in London, Yale School of Music, UCLA and have a doctorate in music performance from the University of British Columbia, Canada.
Prices
$50 per 1/2 hour, $90 per hour
Viola Teacher
Bernard KaneLocation
Online via Skype, Zoom & More
Get in touch to find out more.
Find out more about my viola lessons, as well as book your first viola lesson.
Personalised Approach
I believe every student learns at their own pace, so I structure lessons to match your abilities and aspirations. My background includes a master’s degree in music and extensive experience as a private teacher, which allows me to provide well-rounded guidance on everything from music theory to viola performance.
Whether you're a beginner just learning to play viola or an advanced musician aiming to master bow technique, my role as your private tutor is to help you become the best violist you can be—while keeping the process enjoyable.
More Online Viola Teachers
Discover more online viola teachers, who share a passion for teaching. Explore their profiles below to find the perfect fit for you:
Amber Miskimmin
Music is such a wonderful gift – something to improve life as you learn it, and something that offers opportunities as you develop. Having first ventured into music tuition in 2006, I have a wealth of experience in tutoring people from all ages and backgrounds. From children to the elderly, and those with special education needs. From beginners right through to advanced playing. I use my experience and degree-level expertise to provide the highest quality of tuition to all. I can offer tuition for grades, or to play for fun.
Lesson Prices:
£15.00 per 1/2 hour, £30.00 per hour
Emily Evison
I have played the violin for over 25 years taking part in both solo, ensemble and orchestral work and performances. I have been teaching violin for 17 years and teach a range of different styles and genres. I have many years of success in tutoring students through both ABRSM and Trinity Music exams and supplement lessons of those studying for practical exams with music theory. I also work with students on school entry exams, orchestral audition preparation and ensemble work where appropriate and am happy to arrange lessons working towards personal goals.
Lesson Prices:
£25.00 per 1/2 hour, £40.00 per hour
Daniel Ratush
Hi I'm Daniel and I've been teaching the violin with passion and dedication since 2010. I've probably taught over a hundred of students of all ages, levels and walks of life, from very beginners and children to aspiring professionals and mature enthusiasts — I really enjoy working and interacting with everybody.
Lesson Prices:
30€ per 1/2 hour, 50€ per hour
Adam Sweet
Adam R. Sweet is a seasoned music educator, violinist, mandolinist, and wedding musician specializing in teaching adult students. With a BA in Musicology and a Master's in Ethnomusicology, he has spent decades refining his approach to helping adults learn and master traditional and roots music. Teaching adults presents both unique challenges and rewards—many come with deeply ingrained habits, yet they bring a level of passion, discipline, and life experience that makes the journey incredibly fulfilling. Adam focuses on intuitive playing, ear training, and confidence-building techniques tailored to each student’s needs. Adam has toured extensively across the U.S.
Lesson Prices:
$45 per 1/2 hour, $75 per hour
Tristan Apperley
I have been playing music all my life and I would say that music is my life. When I am not tied up with professional engagements, I am making music with several of my friends who feel the same way I do about music. Through all my years playing in an array of contexts, I have insights from all sides of European music which I am keen to share and make other people’s musical dreams come true, like mine have many times over now.
Lesson Prices:
£15.00 per 1/2 hour, £30.00 per hour
Maja Benevrkic
Hi, my name is Maja Benevrkic and I am very passionate contemporary artist/musician. I have finished my education here in England on De Montfort University getting my Bachelor’s in Arts, however, prior to that I have lived and studied in Croatia where I received most of my musical education. I can offer private tuition for Violin, Viola, Guitar, Piano, Music Theory, Composition and Singing for £35 per hour. (Lessons paid for in advance.) Your current knowledge of music can be at any level.
Lesson Prices:
£25 per 1/2 hour, £35 per hour
Julia McLean
Hello, my name is Julia! I am an American/English violist and violinist, and I just moved to Montpellier to join the orchestra as Alto second soliste. I am a teacher, performer, and artist, and have been teaching since 2016. I grew up in Boston, Massachusetts, but have also lived in San Francisco, Paris, and Vienna. I also speak French and German, but I mainly teach in English. I studied viola at The Juilliard School in New York City and took several pedagogy courses there.
Lesson Prices:
€40 per 1/2 hour, €70 per hour
Kiona Burgess
I am a classically trained violinist. I have studied the violin for 19 years and received my Bachelor of Music Degree from Stephen F. Austin State University. I offer beginner to intermediate lessons for both violin and viola. I have worked as an Early Childhood Music Educator for El Sistema Colorado and as an Orchestra Director with the Colorado Chamber Outreach Program in the Douglas County School District. As a teacher, I strive to build a safe classroom environment where my students can feel confident in their musical ability and comfortable asking questions.
Lesson Prices:
$35 per 1/2 hour, $65 per hour
Fiona Richards
I am an enthusiastic and energetic teacher and have twenty years of experience sharing my love and knowledge of music and violin/viola playing with students of all ages. I come from the UK where I studied at Trinity College of Music, London, and the University of Southampton, and I have recently moved to the beautiful corrézien French countryside. At the moment I teach predominantly online, working with international students. I have taught for music services in Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Enfield and in a variety of public and state schools, and privately.
Lesson Prices:
£20.00 per 1/2 hour, £36.00 per hour
John Spoulos
John Spoulos,I have been teaching for five decades.I have had three rock stars and two Grammy nominees as,well as numerous performers,college scholarships for students.We teach all of the,styles,but more importantly, I wrap the lessons around,what students want to learn.You puck the genre and songs,we then go to work enabling you to achieve your musical goals.The lessons,are thirty minute,once a week sessions geared toward your goals and,ability to achieve them.We can do in studio,or, online.Most students are within a,several month framework to achieve.My technique gets you to where you wish to be.
Lesson Prices:
120$ per month, 4 sessions per month per 1/2 hour
Advice for New Students
Private Lessons with Online Viola Tutors
Welcome! I'm so glad you're considering online viola lessons. Whether you're just beginning your viola education or are an experienced player looking to refine your technique, my lessons are tailored to meet your unique goals and needs. With years of experience as a principal violist in both symphony orchestras and chamber music ensembles, I bring a wealth of knowledge to help students of all skill levels achieve their full potential.
Who Can Join?
My online viola lessons are open to students of all ages and skill levels, from kids just beginning their musical journeys to musically gifted children seeking to enhance their talents. I’ve worked with beginners, university students, and even adults rediscovering their passion for music. If you’re interested in chamber music, soloist repertoire, or just playing for fun, these lessons are for you! With experienced online viola tutors like me, you’ll develop skills to take your playing to the next level.
Flexible Online Scheduling
One of the great benefits of online lessons is flexibility. We can create a schedule that works for you, whether you’re balancing school, piano, or cello lessons—or simply need a time slot that fits a busy life. All you need is your viola, a comfortable space, and a willingness to learn! The online format allows you to connect with a dedicated tutor without needing to leave the comfort of your own home.
What You’ll Learn
During our lessons, I focus on building a solid foundation of technique while encouraging creativity and joy in every note you play. We will work on essential skills like proper bowing, tone production, and finger placement, as well as exploring advanced repertoire for performance. I also integrate music theory into each lesson to deepen your understanding of the pieces we play. For younger learners or beginners, I offer guidance that builds skills progressively, ensuring confidence with each step forward.
Why Choose Online Lessons with Me?
As a violist with years of professional performance experience, I bring passion and dedication to my teaching. I’ve worked with musically gifted students from arts schools to special boarding schools, helping them grow into confident and skilled musicians. My approach is not only educational but also deeply personal, fostering a love for music that will last a lifetime. Whether you dream of joining a symphony orchestra, playing for personal enjoyment, or preparing for music school auditions, I’ll be here to support you during your viola education.
Let's Get Started
If you’re ready to learn or build on your current skills, I’d love to meet you! My lessons are designed to inspire beginners, intermediate players, and advanced musicians alike. The world of strings is waiting, and I’m excited to guide you through it. Reach out today to schedule a free trial lesson and experience the joy of playing viola firsthand. Together, we can achieve your musical goals and make the process as fun and fulfilling as possible!
Learn to Apply Music Theory to Your Playing
When it comes to learning the viola, understanding music theory is like having a roadmap to guide your musical journey. As a violist with years of teaching experience, I often emphasise the importance of blending technical skill with theoretical knowledge. While the joy of playing the viola comes from hearing those beautiful strings sing under the bow, knowing the "why" behind the notes elevates your playing to a whole new level.
Music theory helps students of all ages—whether you're a young beginner or an advanced player—develop a deeper connection to the instrument and the music itself. It teaches you how to read sheet music, recognise patterns, and understand the structure of a piece. Whether you're playing solo, in an orchestra, or even applying theory while fiddling around for fun, these skills make you a more versatile and confident musician.
Building a Strong Foundation with Supportive Tutors
At any level, working with experienced viola teachers or tutors makes all the difference. My role as a teacher is to help you apply music theory in practical ways, ensuring it becomes an integral part of your playing. When I graduated from music school, I realised how crucial this knowledge was in shaping my skills and shaping me into a well-rounded musician. Now, I love passing this understanding on to students—whether they're prepping for a university program, preparing to pass a grade exam, or just picking up the viola for the first time.
Music schools and professional tutors focus on more than just your ability to play; we help you grasp why certain notes blend beautifully, how harmony enhances melodies, and how theory can even guide your bow technique. Having a permanent teacher or attending lessons consistently ensures you gain these essential building blocks over time.
Applying Theory to Unlock Joy in Music
The joy of music lies not only in mastering techniques but also in understanding and appreciating the artistry behind a composition. Music theory bridges the gap between simply playing and truly expressing yourself on the viola. It’s the tool that transforms a student’s education—whether they’re kids starting in the arts or adults revisiting their love of music after years away. With the support of an experienced teacher, you'll discover how theory equips you to thrive in any musical setting.
Whether you’re working towards becoming a permanent member of an orchestra or simply want to bring some warm, rich viola tones into your life, incorporating music theory into your practice will always pay off. I’m here to help you unlock the full potential of this beautiful instrument and make every lesson both rewarding and inspiring!
Learn Viola through Viola Music that You Love
As a viola teacher, one of the greatest joys in my teaching is helping students explore the wide range of music this wonderful instrument can bring to life. Whether you're guided by viola tutors or violin tutors expanding their repertoire, the viola offers endless opportunities for musical expression.
Classical Masterpieces
Some students gravitate toward classical music, where the viola has played a vital role for centuries. From the lush harmonies of Bach to the powerful solo sonatas of Rebecca Clarke, the viola truly shines in the classical world. As a graduated violist, I’ve studied and performed many of these works during my university years and love sharing these timeless compositions with students at any grade level.
Contemporary and Film Music
One of the most exciting aspects of learning the viola today is discovering its use in contemporary and film music. This genre allows you to explore free technique and experiment with different sounds. I guide students on how to adapt their skills to bring these rich, emotional scores to life while building confidence in their playing.
Folk and Traditional Styles
The viola’s deep, resonant strings make it an amazing instrument for folk music. Whether it’s Celtic melodies, Eastern European dances, or even improvisation within a traditional setting, the viola can take on these styles beautifully. I often encourage students to learn pieces that connect them to their cultural roots or simply make them feel joy as they play.
Popular and Jazz Tunes
Many think of violins when it comes to non-classical genres, but viola can hold its own in pop and jazz thanks to its unique timbre. Whether you’re a beginner working with your first teacher or an advanced student refining your technique, exploring these styles is both fun and rewarding. Viola tutors like myself are here to help you adapt to these genres, ensuring you feel right at home in each.
I always want my students to feel inspired and excited by what they’re learning, whether that’s tackling classical sonatas, vibing with jazz, interpreting folk traditions, or experimenting with modern pieces. The viola is such a versatile instrument, and together, we’ll find the music that speaks to you!
My lessons are personalised to suit each student’s needs, whether you’re a beginner eager to learn the basics or an advanced player fine-tuning your craft. By teaching online, I make learning the viola convenient and accessible without compromising on quality. No matter your background, I’m here to support your musical journey and empower you to achieve your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Viola lessons typically last between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the student’s level and goals.
Children can start viola lessons around 6 to 7 years old, though some begin earlier with smaller-sized violas.
Yes, having your own viola is important for practicing between lessons and making steady progress. You Will also need to download Zoom for free by clicking here.
Yes, viola lessons are worth it for adults, offering a rewarding way to learn music and play in ensembles.
It takes about 6 months to learn the basics of viola playing, with advanced skills taking several years of consistent practice.
Find out more about my viola lessons and how to book your first session.
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