Wendy Larson

Wendy Larson joined the Copper Country Suzuki Association in 2008. Ms. Larson has been teacing violin for over ten years. She has taught at the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point Arts Conservatory, the Allegro Academy of Music in Milwaukee, multiple summer camps, the Marquette Schools After-School Strings Program and currently at Jim's Music and Learning Center in Marquette.

Wendy Larson received her Bachelor of Arts in Music from the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point. At UWSP, she studied violin with Steve Bjella and the Suzuki Method with Pat D'Ercole. Ms. Larson also studied violin with Joyce Balint, of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, in New York. As a U.P. native Wendy Larson had the honor of studying with many formerly local musicians, including Paul Lundin, Dave Cole, Mike Twomey and Eric Lawson.

Ms. Larson is currently a member of the Marquette and Keweenaw Symphony Orchestras. She is also an active strings adjudicator in Michigan and Wisonnsin. She has even earned the reputation as "The Nice Judge".

In her free-time, Ms. Larson enjoys Candy Land marathons and finger-painting with her son, R.J.

Wendy's Teaching Philosophy

It is my hope that each of my students find joy in their ability to make and share music and I believe that it is my job to be sure they have all the right tools and skills to find that joy easily. Learning to understand and play music should be fun foremost. Undoubtedly, it is not always easy. However, there is a great deal of joy to be experienced when a difficult passage, piece, or technique is mastered. I believe that student, parent, and teacher are blessed when working towards good music-making together.

During a lesson, it is always my policy to praise honest efforts and decent performances, and to make suggestions for improvement in the most positive way. More than once a day, I can be found saying, "That was good. Let's make it even better by ...." Additionally, if an important lesson can be made into a fun story or game, I'll do it! On the days that I am doing my job well, I can convince even the most skeptical student that practicing can be fun.

All kidding aside, I truly believe that good teachers -- no matter their subject -- help their students become better people, and I take that job very seriously, while smiling, naturally.

Content last updated: 4/25/2009