Viola lessons, intermediate - advanced (in English, German or Russian)

I am a professional violin and viola teacher based in Zurich, teaching in person at students' location or online, in English, German or Russian. (Reviews below) As well as instrumental teaching and ensemble coaching of at all levels over the last 12 years, I’ve led numerous professional workshops, including ‘Music First’ and ‘Music Masters’ workshops in London and was an assistant on the Primary Arpeggione viola course and at the Springgrove music competition. As a member of the European String Teachers’ Association, I participated in their conferences across Europe. I have prepared students for music exams at all levels, working with them on music theory, aural and sight reading skills, and regularly accompany students on the piano. As a performing musician, I perform internationally as a soloist and chamber musician, recently including at the Victoria Hall in Geneva, Elbphilharmonie in Hamburg and Philharmonie in Berlin. I’m a Tillett Trust and Villa Musica artist, winner of the Małopolska competition, Barbirolli Prize at the Lionel Tertis International Viola Competition and Len Lickorish Memorial Prize at the Royal Overseas League International Strings Competition. I hold a masters degree with first class honours from the class of Tabea Zimmermann at the Hochschule für Musik Hanns Eisler Berlin, and Bachelors with the same distinction from the Royal Academy of Music in London. * Reviews * Stephanie W. Toby is an outstanding instructor and works with children very naturally. My 11 year old son has been taking lessons with Toby for over two months and is eager for each lesson. Toby is extremely talented, but beyond that, he engages my son deeply with the music itself, fundamental techniques, music theory, and even the interpretation of the music. Toby is kind, encouraging, and works with students at a level that is appropriate. He has allowed my son to chose music that if fun and interesting to practice, even though the pieces are challenging. In fact, I often sit in to listen to the lessons, as they are so good. My son has had a couple of lessons with Toby while company has been over, and everyone has commented on how amazing Toby is as an instructor. I can not recommend Toby enough and hope to continue lessons with him for a long time. Pamela B. Toby is really a great teacher who teaches the pieces well and brings out more of the feeling in the playing. We particularly liked that. Good technique is one thing, but feeling the music is such an important element in music and learning a piece of music. He also teaches theory very well! Tatyana M. Toby is a fantastic teacher. He is very reliable as he is consistently organised and punctual. I constantly see progress in my child’s music skills because every lesson Toby delivers is effective and well-structured. I highly recommend him to all who wish to learn or improve on their music skills. Shaun W. Knowledgeable and frank, Toby was able to provide me with crucial information quickly and efficiently. Hanna S. Toby can explain things very well and understandably, is patient and friendly and easily adapts to the student's level. Jacques R. Toby is an excellent tutor with top teaching skills..he teaches music theory in a way my 12 year old son understands the lesson easily; Toby is very attentive