Rafe has taught my son violin for several years. He is the perfect teacher for my child, always patient and optimistic, and able to help my son stay focused during lessons. Because of Rafe’s good-natured and playful guidance, my son has the presence of music in his life, which is something I never had. He is responsive, helpful, and a great communicator. Thanks Rafe!
-Serena
Being an adult violin student is a humbling and challenging experience. I am so glad I found a teacher who is both a gifted musician and an excellent teacher. I have been taking lessons from Rafe for a couple years and he has always been unfailingly kind and patient. He inspires and motivates me even when I feel like I am in a rut. I always leave my lessons feeling positive. I would recommend Rafe to anyone regardless of age or skill level.
-Amy
“I was really nervous about learning a new instrument as an adult–especially violin!–but Rafe has been a great teacher. Lessons are an ideal mix of structure and flexibility, and I’m astonished how much I’ve improved in the past year and a half. Learning to play fiddle has reminded me why I loved music in the first place.”
-Erin
Rafe is a fabulous teacher, able to meet students at different levels of abilities. A true musician and educator, Rafe helps students grow at their own pace while encouraging them to grow and develop as musicians and performers. Our daughter has grown tremendously as a violin player, learning by ear and written music, under Rafe’s tutelage and guidance. Rafe is a fabulous musician and educator.
-Oscar
Our daughter has taken lessons from Rafe for over three years, and has worked with her in Strings For Kids for many more. Rafe is a rock solid teacher. As a fiddler, he adds an element of creativity and spontaneous joy to his lessons. As someone who understands the human condition, he has an abundance of empathy; he’s offered overflowing support amidst scales and etudes, bow-rehairing and fussy fine-tuners. Our daughter’s confidence as a musician has grown exponentially; and, most important, her enthusiasm to collaborate, experiment, and perform in any number of venues (from recitals to farmers markets!) has blossomed and, no doubt, will continue to grow for many years to come.
-Lynette
Rafe Wolman 