Brandon’s new method book is now available!!

My Teaching Philosophy

I believe in a holistic and personalized approach to violin where the priority is comfort and ease of playing, regardless of the repertoire which the student wishes to focus on. 

My curriculum is guided by the student’s creative goals and desires while careful attention is given to the practical and mechanical aspects of playing a stringed instrument.  I also focus on developing rhythmic awareness and learning how to produce a beautiful tone on the violin.  

For my younger students I use the Suzuki Method, which emphasizes the importance of parental involvement in the student's musical education, as well as promoting a positive and supportive philosophy of learning that includes the use of the whole body.  I often supplement the traditional Suzuki literature with specific fiddle tunes designed to teach them the basics while helping them explore new styles.

For more information or to schedule a lesson, contact me.

Studio Policies

Cancellation Policy

The parent/student should contact the teacher at least 24 hours in advance for a lesson cancellation. Cancellations requested in less than 24 hours will not be rescheduled and must be paid for in full. No-shows will not be rescheduled or refunded.

Expectations for Parents

If the student is under the age of 12, it is required that parents attend the child’s lesson, preferably taking notes, so that they can help the student practice at home. However, it is requested that the parent does not talk to the student or try to coach the student during lessons, as it is distracting to the student and can make the teaching process more difficult.  The teacher is not able to talk about scheduling or any other topics before or after the lesson time.   Either discuss these things during the lesson, or save these correspondences for email or text outside of the studio.  It is the responsibility of the parent (or student, if old enough) to pack up their instrument and music in a timely manner at the end of the lesson to ensure that the following student has an on-time start to their lesson.  If the student arrives late, the teacher cannot go overtime.

Expectations for Students

Please come to your lesson with your instrument and prepared with the assignment from the previous lesson. If the parent is not taking notes, please bring a spiral notebook for taking notes.

Scheduling and Billing

Mr. Vance uses an app called Fons for Scheduling and Billing.  Once the parent/student’s name, email and phone number have been added in the system, they will receive an email from Fons prompting them to enter their payment information.  Once the payment information has been entered into the Fons system, the parent/student will automatically be billed at the completion of each lesson.  The parent/student can schedule and cancel lessons directly through the Fons app (Fons.app), or text/email Mr. Vance, and he will do it manually.   For trial lessons and discounts, please contact Mr. Vance directly, and he will schedule your lesson for you. You can visit the Fons scheduling service here: www.fons.com