In my lessons I offer personalized instruction according to the needs and desires of the student. My teaching philosophy centers around the idea that traditional violin-based folk music ("fiddle") can be used as a tool to learn and refine the techniques required to play the violin. I believe learning to play the violin can be a rewarding, intuitive and maintainable experience for a person of any age, and that no prior musical experience is necessary. I am also available as a coach for students of orchestra and string ensembles. Initially trained as a classical violinist, my current passions include Southern Old-Time, Irish, French-Canadian Fiddle music and Klezmer. In June 2011, I became the first teacher in Washington State to be certified in the Mark O'Connor Violin Method, a developmental curriculum of American folk music for students of all levels. A frequent studio recording musician, I also perform locally and tour regionally with various ensembles. Please see videos for performances and sample lessons. My teaching methods include: The Mark O'Connor Violin Method, Playing by Ear, Reading Music, Suzuki Method, Improvisation Techniques. I hold a degree in Pedagogy: Education and Teaching Methods, from the Evergreen State College (2003).
Teaches all skill levels
Teaching since 2010
Elizabeth Faidley Pedagogy Symposium
Teaches ages 5+
Has background check
In my lessons I offer personalized instruction according to the needs and desires of the student. My teaching philosophy centers around the idea that traditional violin-based folk music ("fiddle") can be used as a tool to learn and refine the techniques required to play the violin. I believe learning to play the violin can be a rewarding, intuitive and maintainable experience for a person of any age, and that no prior musical experience is necessary. I am also available as a coach for students of orchestra and string ensembles. Initially trained as a classical violinist, my current passions include Southern Old-Time, Irish, French-Canadian Fiddle music and Klezmer. In June 2011, I became the first teacher in Washington State to be certified in the Mark O'Connor Violin Method, a developmental curriculum of American folk music for students of all levels. A frequent studio recording musician, I also perform locally and tour regionally with various ensembles. Please see videos for performances and sample lessons. My teaching methods include: The Mark O'Connor Violin Method, Playing by Ear, Reading Music, Suzuki Method, Improvisation Techniques. I hold a degree in Pedagogy: Education and Teaching Methods, from the Evergreen State College (2003).
Teaches all skill levels
Teaching since 2010
Elizabeth Faidley Pedagogy Symposium
Teaches ages 5+
Has background check
I always looked forward to my lessons with Pamela. She brought kindness, patience, and a sense of fun to the session. I learned a lot about music as well, and she honored my intentions for learning an instrument, helping to set a pace that was comfortable for me yet exciting and challenging.
Pamela knows how to teach, not just play, the violin. Many people charging for lessons simply were taught how to play once upon a time, but don’t have a plan or an ear/eye for what to work on to improve a new or experienced player. But Pamela is a professional and very serious about her job for someone who laughs every thirty seconds. She’s very fun and vibrant too!
For the past two years I have enjoyed private fiddle lessons with Pamela Margon. She is most encouraging and positive while always challenging me to go further. I appreciated her support in the music I wanted to play. As an older student (65), I have enjoyed learning to play by ear; it's like learning a new language, and I have grown in my playing confidence. I look forward to continuing with the fiddle for years to come thanks to Pamela's delightful teaching manner. Highly recommend!