Alex Taylor - Violin Teacher
Melbourne based violin teacher specialising in Folk, Gypsy Jazz, Classical and Improvisation.
Testimonials:
"Alex is a very committed and personable teacher who adapts to your capabilities and preferred styles of learning. I highly recommend Alex to those wanting to learn variety, technique and be guided by a teacher who truly cares for his students." - Carmen O'Brian, Melbourne"Ever since I started I have been practicing twice as hard. It's inspired me a lot. Thanks Alex!" - Amber Gorden, Bristol UK aged 10"A large amount of playing violin is very difficult to explain and, despite this, Alex approaches his lessons with patience and understanding. If there is an aspect that is struggling to be grasped, he will find a different way of illustrating it. If you start slipping and neglecting lessons of the past, he will push you to bring you back where you should be. But most of all, each lesson he will always ensure progression without expectation, at a rate suitable for you." - Patrick Grandon - Bristol UK
Learn Folk / Gypsy Jazz
Folk and Gypsy Jazz have a different energy to classical—they’re looser, more rhythmic, and focused more on feel than perfection.You’ll use less vibrato, more bounce in the bow, and plenty of ornamentation to bring the music to life. It’s about groove, not polish—learning to phrase naturally, lock into rhythm, and tell a story through the melody.In Gypsy Jazz, improvisation is key. Once you understand the chord progression, you can build solos that fit the harmony while still expressing your own voice. It’s all about creating your sound—with flair, clarity, and freedom.
Classical For All Ages
Classical training builds the foundation for all great playing—pitch, rhythm, tone, and expressive control.In lessons, we focus on strong technique and musical interpretation. It's not about playing like a robot, but using phrasing, bowing, vibrato, and timing to bring the music to life.If you're aiming to sit AMEB exams, I’ll make sure you’re properly prepared—my students consistently get strong results. I also help students prepare for university auditions, including mock performances and private concerts with a professional accompanist when needed.
About Me
I began teaching in 1997 during my third year at university, when I helped a student successfully audition for the Bachelor of Music at the University of Southern Queensland. After graduating, I moved to the UK, where I taught privately and performed in bands, theatre productions, and at weddings.My approach is friendly and student-focused. Whether you're preparing for exams, learning to improvise, or just playing for fun, my goal is to help you improve in the direction you want to go.I've guided many students through the AMEB classical system with excellent results, making the process both rewarding and manageable.You can hear examples of my playing at alextaylorviolin.comLessons are $60/hour at my place in North Coburg. I'm also happy to travel to you if you're within a 45-minute radius.To book, contact me at [email protected] or text/call 0466 824 509.
