Violin Viola and Cello teacher with 35 years experience teaching and performing professionally across Canada. Master of Music degree. Enjoyable and effective lessons. Rated in the Three Best in Sarnia

I began my study of violin under the tutelage of Stephen at the age of 9 years old. He was my primary instructor during my 9 years of study in violin. I have had 5 violin teachers throughout my studies and Stephen has proven to be the most knowledgeable, well versed and passionate instructor who significantly helped me on my learning journey. Stephen's passion and knowledge of music has been instrumemtal in my development. He demonstrated a patience and adaptability to overcome any struggles that I endured to ensure I was learning in the most effective manner possible. I would recommend Stephen as an instructor to people of all musical abilities, whether it be that you are just beginning to learn or are already an experienced learner.

I’ve had the privilege of learning violin with Mr. Collins for over five years, and throughout that time, he has consistently impressed me with his clear explanations and unique approach to teaching.

Mr. Collins has not only helped me master a variety of techniques but also taught me how to break down complex repertoire into manageable sections. His thoughtful exercises tailored to specific skills have been incredibly helpful in my development.

One of his greatest strengths is his ability to analyze my playing and pinpoint areas for improvement, which has been crucial to my progress.

However, what I appreciate most about Mr. Collins is his flexible teaching style. Instead of following a rigid curriculum, he is always open to exploring different aspects of music that I might bring up during lessons. This flexibility has made lessons much more engaging and enjoyable.

Overall, Mr. Collins is a great teacher, and I would greatly recommend taking lessons from him.

I am pleased to write this letter of recommendation for Stephen Collins, an exceptional violin instructor who has greatly enriched my musical journey. As an adult student, I have found his teaching approach to be both inspiring and highly effective.

Stephen possesses a deep wealth of knowledge about the violin, from technical fundamentals to complex musical interpretation. His patience and ability to break down challenging concepts—such as rhythm, bowing techniques, hand positions, and diverse music styles—have allowed me to progress meaningfully in my studies. He tailors each lesson to my individual needs, ensuring that I not only understand the material but also see tangible improvements in my playing.

What truly sets Stephen apart is his ability to make learning both engaging and rewarding. His structured yet flexible approach fosters confidence, and his clear explanations help demystify even the most intricate aspects of violin technique. Thanks to his guidance, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the instrument and a stronger sense of musicality.

I highly recommend Stephen Collins to any student seeking an instructor who is knowledgeable, patient, and dedicated to their success. His passion for teaching and commitment to his students make him an invaluable mentor.

I find that Mr. Collins is a very patient teacher and knows just how to inspire me. He makes up many of his own exercises just for me. I highly recommend him!