Exploring the emotional connections between composer, performer and listener

The Performer

“For me, it’s about creating a sense of oneness-making a real human connection that links listener, composer and performer-and makes us all more energized in the process.”

British violinist Fiona Lloyd-Aikman has performed  at Carnegie Hall, Hong Kong City Hall, Kölner Philharmonie, Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Gardens and at churches such as the Cologne Cathedral, Germany and St. John the Divine in Manhattan. 

As an active freelancer in the greater NY region, Fiona has played with ensembles including American Ballet Theater, the American, Binghampton, Albany, Ridgefield and Norwalk Symphony Orchestras. She has performed with members of the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra in Downtown Sinfonietta, White Plains and performed as concertmaster with the New Jersey City University opera orchestra.

Fiona has made television appearances backing rock stars on Top of the Pops and Late Night with Conan O’Brien. She has performed with well-known Japanese composer Joe Hisaishi on his symphonic US tours.

Fiona’s repertoire ranges from works by John Harbison, Sibelius, Schnittke, Albinoni and Britten. 

Fiona studied abroad at the Royal Academy of Music and the Hochshule für Musik, Cologne. In the US she studied at Manhattan School of Music and SUNY Purchase.

The Teacher

“My goal is to awaken students’ curiosity—to get them exploring their world through music. In my studio students become detectives, and together we discover solutions to technical and musical problems. When they’ve solved their own challenges, their sense of accomplishment is a fantastic boost to their learning.”

Fiona’s current private studio is based in White Plains, NY. Earlier in her career, she maintained successful private teaching practices in Hong Kong, Cologne, and London. She has taught students aged 6-50, beginner to advanced.

Using a wide variety of genres and styles to energize learning, her students explore music ranging from Scott Joplin to Mendelssohn, Vivaldi to the Beatles and from to Pasek and Paul to Bach. 

Ms. Lloyd-Aikman’s students regularly take part in the NYSSMA All-County orchestra, and have been accepted to the MAP Juilliard School and the Greater Westchester Youth Orchestras.  In addition, her students regularly excel in the ABRSM exams, receiving the highest mark of distinction. 

Her students perform in celebratory year-end studio recitals that connect family and community. One such concert was presented on Mother’s Day at a local retirement home to a packed and appreciative audience of residents and relatives. These experiences help students build on their communication and social skills—as well as their confidence.

Testimonials

“..Once she started taking lessons with Fiona, her enthusiasm for playing and practicing changed dramatically.  Fiona was always patient and encouraging, and would tailor lessons to reinforce what my daughter was learning in after school Orchestra or Westchester Country District wide competitions.  I believe that Fiona’s teaching abilities facilitated the determination and drive my daughter possesses today, to put every effort into giving her best performance, no matter what it may be.”–Jeanne Simchick (parent)

“Fiona is an exceptional teacher who has taught me so much over my five years with her. She has been a patient and kind teacher to me, helping me to push my skills to the next level. She is really committed to bringing out the best in me and continuously helps to develop my skills in the areas I need it. I couldn’t ask for a better teacher who communicates effectively and teaches well.”–Edmund Tsou (student)

“…She is simply the best, most patient and knowledgeable teacher around.  Fiona helped me grow and become a confident violinist… My technique and ability as a performer steadily improved, as Fiona was always brainstorming new exercises that were specific to my personal strengths and weaknesses.”–Georgia Simchick (former student)

Audio

Coming soon

Policies

Schedule

We follow the Westchester schools calendar and lessons are on a weekly basis.  Lessons can be arranged over the summer too, depending on availability.

Working together

For you to get the best out of your lessons, I ask you to:

·      Arrive on time with your instrument, rosin and music ready to begin

·      Switch your phone to airplane mode before the lesson begins

Expectations

Students are expected to practice 5 days a week, with their practice sessions at least the length of their lesson (30, 45, or 60 minutes). Developing a consistent practice schedule is the best way to reach your goals.  I will provide notes from each lesson for you to use as a guide for your practice. 

Parent involvement

For younger students I ask that parents:

·      Help your child read and review the practice notes from the lessons

·      Encourage daily practice

When you’re running late

Please send me a text or call me to let me know that you will be late (917 533 0711).  Please note though, I will only be able to teach for the remaining lesson time.

When life happens

I understand things can pop up that force us to cancel a lesson from time to time. For you to receive a make-up lesson, 24 hrs notice is required.  There are no make-up lessons for no-shows or last minute unexcused cancellations. Make-up lessons will be scheduled at a mutually agreed upon time.

In the rare event that I need to cancel a lesson, I will do my best to reschedule you for that same week.

Behind the lessons

I keep communication transparent, as this helps the lessons run smoothly and without conflict.  Feel free to contact me anytime to discuss any issues.  

First meeting and introductory lesson is complimentary

I look forward to meeting with prospective students and their parents. That way, you can get a feel for how we’d work together and how you can achieve your musical goals.

Cost

Please contact me for lesson fees. Lesson lengths vary according to age. I generally recommend 30 minute lessons for students 6-9 years old, 45 minutes for 10-12 year olds and 60 minutes for older students.

Payment

Monthly payment is due at the first lesson of every month.  Cash, cheque, Venmo and Zelle are all accepted.

Contact

fmla888@gmail.com

917 533 0711