James Larson
About
Hello,
My name is James B. Larson. I'm a high school string orchestra director in Minnesota. I enjoy conducting, performing, and teaching violin and string orchestra.
Teaching Style
I hold a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Instrumental Music Education from Minnesota State University in Moorhead, MN. I also hold a Master of Arts Degree in Differentiated Instruction from Concordia University in St. Paul, MN. Currently, I am working on my Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Concordia University.
My resume holds 8 years of public school teaching experience and 12 years of private lesson experience. Previously, I owned and operated my own private lesson studio called Larson Strings LLC. My studio consisted of over 50 violin students. Besides teaching, I have studied violin for over 25 years. During my undergrad, I was the concert master of the world renowned Concordia College Orchestra from 2010 - 2011.
My teaching is straight forward with the needs of the student put first. First, the student's learning goals and needs are determined. Next, the teacher crafts a simple yet effective learning plan that will enable the student to reach their goals.
Finally, through continued practice, support, and feedback the student is positively supported while reaching their musical goals.
Curriculum
Teaching various students calls for the application of various texts:
Beginners: utilize the Essentials for Strings - Beginner and Suzuki books 1-2.
Intermediate: utilize the Essential for Strings - Intermediate, Suzuki books 2-4, Solos for Young Violins,
Advanced: utilize the Essentials for Strings - Advanced Book, Suzuki books 4-7, Solos for Young Violins, and standard Dorothy Delay Violin Solo List.
Credentials & Affiliations
Minnesota Teaching License K-12 Instrumental Music Education
Master of Arts - Differentiated Instruction - Concordia University, St. Paul, MN
Bachelor of Arts - Instrumental Music Education - Minnesota State University, Moorhead, MN