Adam Sweet

Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of teaching music to students of all ages and abilities. I have a deep love for music and a passion for sharing that love with my students. I believe that music has the power to inspire, enrich, and transform the lives of those who experience it, and I am committed to providing my students with a high-quality music education that will help them develop their talents and reach their full potential.

"Learning to play the fiddle or mandolin brings joy, improves cognitive function, and can provide a new creative outlet for adults. Plus, it's never too late to pick up a new skill!"  Working primarily with adults, the challenges are to overcome past inadequacies with positive reinforcement and empathy.    

Beginning Students

Beginning students will learn the basics: music theory and how to read music, how to count, meter and rhythm, keys and chords; how to hold the instrument and pick (or bow for violin players); how to practice scales, arpeggios and exercises; how to play basic melodies.  At some point, usually within a few weeks, beginning students may be ready for more advanced material which will be assigned at that time.  

Advanced Students

Advanced students that can already read and understand the basics of their instrument will study more advanced theory including the modes, advanced timing and rhythm, advanced chords, harmonization, improvisation, and will be introduced to a wide variety of music depending on the genre and style they have chosen to study.  For example, Classical musicians will be exposed to a variety of composers from the Renaissance Era up to the Romantic Era and everything in between.  Folk musicians will be exposed to a wide variety of western European traditional dance music styles including Celtic, Quebecois and Cape Breton music as well as American styles such as Bluegrass, Country, Western Swing, Jazz, Blues, and more.