Now accepting new students for January 2024! Lessons resume on the week of January 15th after the holiday break. As long as this ad is still up, I am welcoming students, so please don't hesitate to reach out if you're interested in starting at a later date.

My name is Geena Salway and I am a violist with the Thunder Bay Symphony Orchestra. I received my BMus in Viola Performance from the University of Manitoba and my MMus in Viola Performance from the University of Ottawa. In addition, I have obtained a Performer's ARCT from the Royal Conservatory of Music and a Performance Diploma from the University of Ottawa. While I was attending the University of Ottawa, I did a practicum with an organization called OrKidstra, where I got a lot of hands-on experience teaching violin and viola students in a Sistema-inspired program.

I've had a private teaching studio here in Thunder Bay since Fall 2020. In those three years, my students have participated in the Lakehead Festival of Music and the Arts and the Thunder Bay Symphony Youth Orchestra. Adult students have the opportunity to join the Community Orchestra through the Thunder Bay Conservatory of Music.

I teach in a classical style. My students learn and perform pieces from the Suzuki and RCM books. In addition, I give the opportunity for students to learn music from other genres, such as fiddle, pop, or film music. Sometimes your favourite tunes can be just as challenging (if not more challenging) than classical repertoire.

I enjoy teaching students of a variety of age groups and skill levels, whether you're playing your very first notes or preparing for an RCM exam. I teach children ages 6-17 and also welcome adult students aged 18 and older. Students younger than 6 may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

My lesson rates are as follows: $55 for a one-hour lesson $40 for a 45-minute lesson $27 for a 30-minute lesson

Please note that these rates are non-negotiable. At my discretion, I may offer a discount for multiple children taking lessons from the same household.

Lessons are billed on a monthly basis. Payment is done via e-transfer and must be received before the first lesson of the month.

As an option, you can book a 30-minute trial/consultation before you commit to lessons. Please note, there will be a non-refundable deposit of $27 for a trial lesson. If you decide to take additional lessons after the trial, you will be credited $27 on your next invoice.

I teach in-person lessons in Port Arthur at Trinity United Church. Virtual lessons through Zoom are possible for families residing outside of the Thunder Bay area.

Currently, I have openings for lessons on Monday evenings. Other days or times may be possible subject to teacher availability and student interest. Start dates for lessons are flexible; whenever you're ready to begin works for me. Lessons run weekly until the beginning of June.

If you or your child are ready to embark on a musical journey through the violin or viola, feel free to reach out and we'll set up a lesson as soon as you're ready! Even if you're not sure, I'm happy to answer any questions you may have to help make your decision.

I can be reached through the messaging feature on Kijiji or via email (my first and last name at gmail dot com).