Welcome to
Violin Lessons Redmond
I'm Nicole McClelland, and I’m so glad you’re here. Whether you’re picking up a violin for the very first time or you’ve been playing for years, I’m passionate about sharing my knowledge and love for this beautiful instrument.
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Lessons Tailored To You
I taught myself to learn music at seven years old. I currently use the same technique to teach all of my students how to easily read music. I began learning violin a year later when I was eight, and I played throughout junior high and high school. I played occasionally with the UC Davis Symphony while still in high school, and I played on the local radio station while still in junior high. I began performing professionally at 15. Though I did not start teaching professionally until much later, I often tutored my peers.
Prices
$60 per hour
Violin Teacher
Nicole McClellandLocation
39370 Black Hawk Pl, Davis, CA 95616, USAGet in touch to find out more.
Find out more about my violin lessons, as well as book your first violin lesson.
Make the Most of Your Violin Journey
Learning the violin—or any instrument—is a lifelong gift. My lessons aren’t just about teaching notes; they’re about building confidence, creativity, and a passion for music. Many of my students who started with me now perform in orchestras, chamber groups, or even compose and play modern genres like rock and pop.
Whether you're interested in group lessons with other musicians, private one-on-one sessions, or simply exploring music for the first time, I’d love to be a part of your musical life. Get started today and discover what makes violin lessons in Redmond a rewarding and enjoyable experience!
Prices:
$60 per hour
Lessons are weekly, fortnightly or as suits you.
Advice for New Students
Professional Music Lessons in Redmond
Welcome! If you're considering violin lessons in Redmond, you're in the right place. Whether you're completely new to playing music, looking to deepen your understanding of music theory, or you're already an intermediate student seeking to refine your skills, I offer lessons tailored to meet your unique musical goals. My approach is designed to make learning violin—or any instrument, including viola, cello, or more—a fun and engaging experience for students of all ages and levels.
Teaching Method and Philosophy
At the core of my teaching method is the belief that every student learns differently. I customize each lesson to match your preferred learning style, ensuring that you feel confident and excited about progressing. For younger students or those just starting out, I introduce key concepts like reading sheet music and foundational techniques in a way that's approachable and enjoyable. For intermediate students or adult learners, we may explore chamber music, advanced playing techniques, or even stage performance preparation.
By teaching music in a structured but flexible way, I aim to help you become not just a better violinist but a well-rounded musician. We can play anything from jazz, pop, and blues to classical—your preferences help guide the lesson.
What to Expect in Lessons
During our private violin lessons, we’ll work on the essentials of becoming a skilled musician, including mastering your instrument, developing your ear, and understanding music theory. If you're just starting with your first lesson, we’ll set clear goals tailored to you—whether that’s preparing for youth symphonies, refining chamber music techniques, or simply enjoying playing music in your free time. I also incorporate different methods depending on your interests, from Allegro Music lessons to classical techniques, to keep our sessions dynamic and enriching.
For families in the Snoqualmie Valley, Fall City, or downtown Redmond area, my studio is conveniently located. I also have experience helping students who are used to online lessons across the Seattle area—his flexibility allows you to grow as a musician.
Music for All Ages
I teach ages ranging from kids as young as six to adult learners looking to reignite their passion for music. Whether you're interested in violin, viola, or even branching into instruments like piano, guitar, ukulele, or clarinet, I have the tools and experience to guide you. My background as a professional musician and music teacher allows me to work with a variety of students and help them succeed, whether they’re preparing for public speaking events, performing on stage, or playing in youth or adult ensembles.
Learn How to Use Music Theory
When it comes to learning to play the violin—or any instrument—music theory acts as the foundation that makes everything else come to life. It’s not just a set of rules or abstract concepts; it’s the language of music that helps you understand how and why the notes come together so beautifully. Whether you’re taking violin lessons in Redmond, online lessons, or in-person music lessons downtown, understanding music theory will enrich your experience and open up endless possibilities as a musician.
Build Confidence with Sheet Music
One of the first things my violin students notice when they start learning music theory is how much easier it becomes to read sheet music. Instead of just memorizing finger placements or note sequences, you’ll begin to understand the structure behind the notes—like keys, scales, and chords. This makes it easier to transition into playing music across different genres, whether it’s jazz, classical, rock, or pop. For students participating in youth symphonies, chamber music, or even Allegro Music Lessons, a strong grasp of music theory ensures they can adapt seamlessly to a variety of pieces and ensembles.
Play with Creativity and Versatility
Learning theory also fuels creativity. For our budding composers or students who love to improvise, understanding concepts like harmony, rhythm, and dynamics opens doors to experimenting and expressing themselves uniquely. I teach students of all ages and learning styles how to bring their personality into their playing—whether it’s through jazz improvisation, exploring the blues on a viola, or adding flair to their chamber music performances. This applies to more than just strings. It’s incredibly rewarding to see students incorporate music theory into instruments like the piano, guitar, clarinet, and even ukulele.
Enhance Collaboration and Performance
Music theory provides violin and viola students the skills they need to communicate effectively with other musicians. For those playing in chamber music groups, youth symphonies, or performing solo in front of an audience, understanding terms like tempo, key signatures, and dynamics helps everyone stay on the same page. Many of my private lessons in the Seattle area focus on these collaborative aspects because they’re vital for successful performances. Even something as simple as knowing how to count rests correctly while playing alongside a cello or bass player can make all the difference.
Achieving Your Goals in Music
Whether your dream is to perform in professional ensembles, teach music yourself one day, or simply play for the joy of it, music theory will help you get there. The first lesson is often the most exciting—introducing young kids or even adults to a world of sound they can create and explore. My role as a music teacher is to guide you, no matter your age or level, through this rewarding process. Teaching music has shown me that even students who start with no prior experience can grasp complex concepts with patience and practice, especially when lessons are tailored to their unique learning styles.
Learning with Ease and Fun
I believe in making music theory approachable and fun. My private in-person lessons in Redmond emphasize a balance between technical learning and enjoying the process of playing music. This could mean exploring Beethoven one day and jamming out to a pop arrangement the next. For both children and adults, music lessons should spark joy. Whether you’re used to violin, viola, or guitar, the goal is to turn every small achievement into a step toward becoming the musician you’ve always wanted to be.
Learning music theory is a crucial part of the musical journey—one that makes playing any instrument, from violin to clarinet, far more rewarding. It gives you the tools to thrive, whether you’re performing chamber music, playing solo, or creating something entirely new. If you’re ready to take the next step with violin lessons in Redmond, or anywhere in the Seattle area, I’d love to be part of your adventure. Together, we’ll uncover the magic of music theory and apply it in ways that inspire and excite you!
Violin and Viola Lessons in All Genres
When you take violin or viola lessons with me, the possibilities are nearly endless! These instruments aren’t tied to one style—they’re incredibly versatile, which means we can explore a variety of genres to suit your interests. Whether you’re a complete beginner taking your first lesson or a seasoned player ready to branch out, there’s always something exciting to learn.
Classical Foundations
Classical music is at the heart of learning the violin and viola. From timeless composers like Mozart and Beethoven to intricate chamber pieces, classical training helps violin students build strong technique and understand the beauty of music theory. This foundation creates the skills you’ll need to tackle any genre in the future.
Jazz and Blues
For those looking to branch out, jazz and blues offer endless opportunities for improvisation and creativity. Learning these styles is a fun way to develop a deeper connection to your instrument while discovering how the violin or viola can shine beyond the classical tradition. Private lessons allow us to work on groovy riffs, smooth improvisations, and techniques that are unique to these genres.
Rock, Pop, and Beyond
Contemporary music from rock to pop can be both challenging and fun, giving you a chance to explore rhythmic techniques and experiment with collaborating in unique ways. Allegro music lessons often focus on adapting popular songs for the strings, making every session engaging and personalized.
Folk and Traditional Styles
Folk music has deep roots around the world, offering rich melodies that are perfect for string players. Together, we can explore Celtic tunes, bluegrass, or even traditional music from other cultures. These styles are particularly great for students who love storytelling through music.
Why Not Try Something New?
Music is a lifelong adventure, and exploring different genres helps keep it exciting. From piano to voice, bass to cello, or just focusing on strings like violin and viola, the opportunities are endless. I’d love to help you discover the genres that inspire you most and guide you toward becoming the musician you’ve always wanted to be. Whether you’re downtown, in Redmond, or tuning in for online music lessons, our time together will be creative and fun!

Violin playing is a rewarding journey for learners of all ages and skill levels, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. I truly believe that learning the violin can enrich your life in so many ways, and it’s never too late or too early to start. If you’re ready to begin or continue your musical adventure, I’d be thrilled to help you unlock your potential and grow your skills. Feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear from you and help you take your next steps in mastering the violin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Violin lessons typically last between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the student's level and goals. This is also the case at Violin Lessons Redmond.
Children can start violin lessons as young as 4 to 5 years old, depending on their attention span and motor skills.
Yes, having your own violin is essential for practicing between lessons and improving steadily. If you are looking to buy your own Violin then please do check out Music & Arts located at 16611 Redmond Way, Redmond, WA 98052.
Yes, violin lessons are worth it for adults, offering an enriching experience and the chance to master a versatile instrument.
It takes about 6 months to learn the basics of violin playing, with advanced skills taking several years of consistent practice.
39370 Black Hawk Pl, Davis, CA 95616, USA Full teaching address will be provided upon first lesson booking.
Location
Teacher
Nicole McClellandFind out more about my violin lessons and how to book your first session.
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