NOW ACCEPTING NEW STUDENTS
My rate is a flat $100/hour. I offer a free 1-hour trial for all prospective students.
Private violin and composition lessons are taught at my home studio in San Francisco’s SOMA neighborhood, a 7-minute walk from the Civic Center BART station. (There is also plenty of street parking nearby.) For students who are unable to travel, I can teach remotely over video call.
Teaching Methods and Experience
I’ve been teaching for over 10 years, in both private lessons and group classes. My students have ranged from kids as young as 5 all the way to older adults.
I firmly believe that learning to play music should be a meaningful and empowering experience – no matter your age, background, or experience level. In addition to teaching classical music, I strive to center repertoire that is exciting and inspiring for students, including from their own favorite genres.
Lessons can include any mix of instruction in composition and improvisation, so that students can develop the skills needed to fully and freely express themselves.
Testimonials
“My 8-year-old son loves having Kourosh as a teacher. He does a great job of developing skills and technique, while still making the lessons fun and engaging. He’s a good communicator and responsive to any questions we’ve had. My son leaves every lesson feeling positive and excited about what he’s learned and the progress he’s making.”
-Erin Kurtz
“Kourosh is a fantastic violin teacher that has taught me for 1 year. He always makes lessons fun and he motivates me to rise to my goals in music. He is patient, kind, innovative and engaging. I would highly recommend him to any level of skill if you want to play the violin.”
-Bennet Lipman
“It is with great pleasure that I write this testimonial for Kourosh, an outstanding violin teacher who has made an incredible impact on my daughter’s musical journey. From the moment we enrolled our daughter in his classes, Kourosh’s dedication, patience, and unique teaching approach have truly impressed us.
One of Kourosh’s most remarkable qualities is his exceptional listening skills. He pays close attention to my daughter’s feedback, ensuring that each lesson is tailored to her specific needs and preferences. This personalized approach has kept her motivated and engaged, fostering a deep like and respect for the violin that continues to grow with each passing day.
Moreover, Kourosh’s patience knows no bounds. He creates a nurturing environment where my daughter feels comfortable exploring notes and rhythms at her own pace. Never once has he rushed or pressured her to grasp a concept before she’s ready. Instead, he gently guides her, allowing her to discover and learn with confidence.
What truly sets Kourosh apart is his ability to infuse elements of fun into his lessons. By incorporating enjoyable activities and games, he keeps the learning experience dynamic and exciting. Unlike some instructors who may focus solely on technical perfection, Kourosh understands the importance of fostering joy and creativity in his students. His approach isn’t overly nit-picky, which we believe is crucial in maintaining progress and enthusiasm, especially at a young age.
In summary, Kourosh is more than just a violin teacher; he is a mentor, a motivator, and a true inspiration to aspiring musicians. We are profoundly grateful for the positive influence he has had on our daughter’s musical journey and wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking an exceptional violin instructor.”
-Nicole and Dave Carvahlo