Why I teach
I always knew I wanted to work with music and people. I just wasn’t sure what that would look like. Until one day, when a friend asked me for a violin lesson. Within a few minutes of showing him how to hold the bow, the answer became clear: I was meant to be a music teacher.
From there, I was hooked on teaching, and went on to train extensively in the Suzuki Method — both as an early childhood educator and violin teacher. A dedicated teacher, I actively seek out new resources and learning opportunities. In addition to owning Little Explorers Music, I am also the founder and owner of Seattle Violin Studio.
There is so much I love about teaching. It’s a delight and privilege to watch my students grow up. I enjoy helping nurture the parent-child relationship through the study of music. I love those moments when my student’s faces light up because they’ve accomplished something they’ve been practicing. My heart warms when I see my parents and students revel in a new success; And I love the look of pride in the parent’s eyes as their child takes on new challenges.
All of these moments are magnified in the Little Explorers class. The amount that little children learn continually astounds me! Imagine experiencing everything for the first time — no wonder they need naps and learn best by repetition… It’s thrilling to watch my students grow their skills, from taking their first steps and saying their first words to being able to clap a steady beat, sing along or take solo turns on the instruments. I’m proud as I watch toddlers learn to pay attention for longer stretches of time and wait patiently for their turns. And, I love seeing parents and children find new ways to play together.
It’s truly my pleasure to help you and your child explore music.
My musical background
Growing up, my parents would play classical music around the house. For as long as I can remember, I loved the lyrical sound and dramatic repertoire of the violin. I was further drawn to the instrument after watching Itzhak Perlman on Sesame Street. My determination to play was piqued after hearing some family friends’ teenage daughters play. I started lessons at the end of 4th grade.
I’ve now been playing for over 20 years and am currently a violinist with the Everett Philharmonic. Past orchestra experience includes the Cascade Symphony Orchestra, Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestras, Boston Civic Orchestra, Tufts University Orchestra and Kamiak High School Orchestra, serving as principal second violin in the latter two. As section leader, I led sectional rehearsals.
I have toured nationally and internationally. Notable performances include Carnegie Hall, the U.S. Embassy in Pecs, Hungary, and Iceland’s famed Blue Lagoon. In 2001, I recieved the Northwest Music Teacher’s Scholarship and invited to play in the All State Orchestra. Past teachers include Blayne Barnes, Jan Coleman, Kent Coleman and Karma Tomm. I also recently started voice lessons with Clarice Alfonso.
Jenelle is a member of the Suzuki Association of the Americas and a board member of the Suzuki Association of Washington State.