Teaching & Education
Alan's teaching method focuses on the immediacy of inner (evaluative) and outer (somatic) feedback as friendly information.
He remains committed to growing on this path; understanding music as a vehicle, a wisdom path that we can travel mindfully, ultimately leading us — beyond the instrument — into a field of mutual human Understanding, Wisdom & Love.
Philosophy
Over the years, silent retreat practice in IMS lineage Insight Meditation led Alan to an ongoing discovery: there is a path whereby we can cultivate a friendly, non-judgmental and discerning awareness.
Alan's teaching method focuses on the immediacy of inner (evaluative) and outer (somatic) feedback as friendly information — understanding music as a vehicle, a wisdom path that we can travel mindfully.
Inner & Outer Feedback
— Learning to receive evaluative (inner) and somatic (outer) feedback as friendly information
Non-Judgmental Awareness
— Cultivating a friendly, non-judgmental and discerning awareness through the instrument
Improvisation
— Rooted in Alan's M.M. in jazz studies at Berklee College of Music, bringing improvisation into classical and folk contexts
Music as a Wisdom Path
— Understanding music as a vehicle that leads us — beyond the instrument — into a field of mutual human Understanding, Wisdom & Love
Online Platform
Alan's online education platform for string players
Visit Open Strings Academy ↗In-Person & Private
Private Practice
One-on-One violin and strings improvisation study — all levels — in-person (New York City) and online (Everywhere)
School Position
On faculty for violin & viola instruction
Community Work
Appearances throughout the U.S. and in under-resourced areas of New York City
Former Position
Former adjunct professor of violin and improvisation studies