
Colton is a dedicated violin and viola teacher who holds a Master of Music and a Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance from uOttawa, graduating Summa Cum Laude. He also studied violin at Marianopolis College and the Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau. A neurodivergent learner himself, Colton fosters an inclusive, student-led environment focused on autonomy and fundamental technique. He offers online lessons and in-studio instruction at his Montreal studio.
I foster student-led learning that develops self-exploration and autonomy in violin and viola study, while maintaining a strong emphasis on technique as fundamental to all playing regardless of level. Drawing from my own experience as a neurodivergent learner, I recognize that each student learns differently and create an inclusive environment where diverse learning styles and behaviors are understood and supported.
uOttawa, Ottawa — Master of Music, Viola Performance uOttawa, Ottawa — Bachelor of Music, Viola Performance - Summa Cum Laude Marianopolis College, Montreal — Violin performance Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau, Gatineau Studied violin since the age of 5 with Luciné Balikian, Alexandre Da Costa, Andrée Azar and studied viola with Michael van der Sloot
Grand Prix - Festival Concours Classival, QC — 1st place - String Trio 2017 Prix Rachel Brassard - Festival Concours Classival, QC — 1st place - String Trio 2016 Festival de Musique Pierre-De Saurel, QC — 1st place - Violin 2015 Canadian Music Competition, Canada — Three-time National Finalist - Violin 2007-2011 Crescendo International Music Competition, USA — Finalist 1st place for many regional competitions
Currently perusing certification in Suzuki Method Forest School Teacher at Hudson Forest Play, facilitating and encouraging self discovery and learning from the direction of the child/student. Provided music instruction as an ETAP for OrKidstra, with a focus on accessibility, inclusion and student empowerment
Colton is a Beethoven at Home Associate Teacher
Home visit fee: $15 minimum fee. Teachers may negotiate a higher travel fee if the travel distance is longer than they are comfortable with. Most arrangements use the minimum fee.
One-Time Family Registration: $25. This covers your entire family for life - once you're in, everyone can take lessons!
Getting Started Together
We don't offer free trials, but we do something better - a relaxed 2-lesson getting-to-know-you period. You can pause anytime with just 24 hours notice. After your third lesson, we ask for a friendly 2-lesson heads up if you need to stop.
Life Happens - We Get It
Give us 24 hours notice for any cancellation or reschedule and you'll receive full credit. Planning a family vacation or summer break? Perfect - just let us know a day ahead and we'll pause your lessons.
When You're Under the Weather
If illness strikes with short notice (less than 24 hours), you'll still be charged since your teacher has reserved that time. However, most teachers are happy to offer makeup lessons when possible - they have the final say, especially if last-minute cancellations become a pattern.
Stopping Lessons
Need to take a break? We just ask for a 2-lesson notice:
Weekly lessons = 2 weeks notice
Every other week = 3 weeks notice
Twice weekly = 1 week notice
Summer breaks are different - no notice period needed when you return in the fall!
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