top of page

Teaching & Education

Ayden Graham - Indie folk rock singer-songwriter & violinist

"Cathy Irons displays an incredible depth of knowledge and a gentle warmth through her teaching. She was able to diagnose my situation by asking detailed questions about my challenges and addressed the issues with helpful suggestions and exercises. I greatly appreciate receiving the videos for continued review. I recommend Cathy both for her personable approach and somatic wisdom."

Here are some additional ways we can work together..

​

image.jpg

Violin Lessons

Violin is one of the most versatile and enjoyable instruments you can learn! It can play anything from classical to funk or folk music, in orchestras or bands. Although it takes time to develop a mature tone, it can sound pleasant from the early stages, and with regular practice, learning the violin is immensely rewarding - you will be amazed at your progress! I take care to provide a nurturing and challenging environment for each student, working within their abilities and creating a space for them to thrive.

image.jpg

Masterclasses & Sectionals

I am passionate about playing and performing with others - in chamber groups or an orchestra. I would love to share the knowledge and skills I have gained over the years with your ensemble, and inspire them to raise their performance to the next level.

image.jpg

Improvisation

Do you play a string, or other classical instrument? Do you like the idea of joining a jam session but never knew how to start? Do you have a child that likes to explore sounds and use their imagination? It's time to learn new skills and get creative. Let's go places!

image.jpg

Adjudication

I love encouraging the next generation to grow on their own personal musical journey through giving positive performance experiences and feedback at festivals and competitions. I have adjudicated for the Christchurch School of Music and Christchurch Competitions.

image.jpg

Workshops & Presentations

From Practice to Performance “I’m frustrated repeating the same passages with the same mistakes. What should I be doing when I practice?” “I get nervous performing. What can I do to be more confident?” How to practise with performance as the end goal. Suitable for adults, NCEA students, instrumentalists and vocalists. I have presented at the Christchurch School of Music, MENZA IRMT, NZ School of Modern Music conferences.

image.jpg

Resources

Here is a list of books I highly recommend. I use many of their principles in my teaching. Paul Rolland The Teaching of Action in String Playing: Developmental and Remedial Techniques, American String Teachers Association 1974 Simon Fischer Basics, Peters 2000 Susan Kempter How Muscles Learn: Teaching the Violin with the Body in Mind, Summy-Birchard 2003 Todd Ehle's violin videos are a treasure trove of technical titbits!

bottom of page