We offer violin classes for all grade levels, focusing on the Suzuki method of instruction. We have Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced level classes, as well as orchestra. Our enrollment is limited, so classes are determined based on space available. Parents who are interested should email me at the address at the bottom of this page and you will be added to our waiting list.
Our Mission Statement: VPA Violin strives to instill a love and appreciation of music through the Suzuki Method. Dr. Shinichi Suzuki originated this method in Japan and believed that all children have ability and when nurtured through encouragement, students can achieve a higher level of musical ability. In addition to developing a child’s musical skill set, the Suzuki Method also teaches focus, concentration, and sensitivity. Students gain self-confidence through successful study and performance. They acquire memory skills and the ability to apply learning techniques to other areas of their lives. At VPA, we also develop a sense of community within our violin classes, where children learn to encourage each other and also support each other as they learn. In orchestra, they learn to work together in a group to reach the goal of learning new music and presenting it to a live audience. These lessons will carry them through many situations as they go on to maneuver Jr. High, High School, and the rest of their lives.
Need details and announcements? Click on the ANNOUNCEMENTS tab at the top of the page!
Use the GOOGLE CLASSROOM tab to access lesson plans and assignments for each class!
About me
This is my 17th year teaching violin at VPA. I love seeing Broadway musicals with my family, cooking, taking care of my dogs, singing, Disneyworld, and home decorating. I graduated from Arkansas Tech University with a degree in Secondary English Education and taught Jr. High English before I had my two daughters. I received my Suzuki training at the University of Memphis during a summer Suzuki Institute Clinic, after deciding to go back to work in public school after my daughters were both in school. My husband, Dr. Ed Owen, is a music professor at Arkansas State University and often volunteers his time to conduct or accompany the violin students at VPA. He is also serves as principle tuba in both the Arkansas Symphony Orchestra and the Texarkana Symphony Orchestra. I have two daughters, both of whom went through the Suzuki Violin Program in Jonesboro Public Schools. My oldest daughter is an Arkansas State University graduate who has taught math at Annie Camp Jr. High and also at North Pike High in Mississippi. She and her husband live here in Jonesboro and have one son. My youngest graduated with a musical theatre degree from Ouachita Baptist University and is teaching theatre and music in the Dallas area. She and her husband live in Lewisville, Texas and also have a son. We are a very musical family and I gladly accepted the challenge of starting a new career in music education after I turned 40! Our family enjoys Broadway musicals, flea markets, and cooking big meals to enjoy together. As our family grows, we make it a priority to be together as often as possilbe. Teaching children is definitely my passion and I love watching them discover their talent!