Hi, I’m Jacob
My name is Jacob Hermsen, founder & owner of Hermsen Music Studio, based in Antwerp, Belgium.
I teach violin / viola students in age categories 5 – 65+ in all levels online and in person.
Currently supporting 25+ students in their passion for music, improve their skills, musicality, and sound. Providing background information about the pieces we play, the history, and anecdotes, will help to get a better understanding of the music and the instrument(s) we play.
Through patience, understanding, a positive learning environment, and fun, I always try to find a creative solution to common problems, and I strongly believe that every student can learn how to play an instrument! My students continue to make me a better teacher, and I am looking forward to welcoming new students!
At Hermsen Music Studio, I make music lessons accessible, affordable, and stimulate music education wherever / whenever I can, therefore I also offer discounts for siblings, as well as a sliding scale incl. different rates depending on county, and tailored to personal financial circumstances if necessary.
A selection of common questions will be answered below and topics such as scheduling, cancellations, and payments will be covered in the Studio Policy (available upon request). Please reach out to me for more information about lesson rates etc. through my contact page!
What teaching methods do you use?
I like to tailor most teaching methods to the students I work with, but some methods work well for all such as the Bornoff method. It’s especially helpful in building a solid technical foundation and to develop a great sound! The Suzuki approach will also be used for younger students, but I believe it’s important to mix & match other Method / Étude books as well. Once a basic understanding of posture, bow hold, rhythm, sound production, and ear training has been reached, I’m always open to introducing my students to the latest Disney tunes, pop music, folk or fiddle songs!
What to expect in a first lesson?
Prior to a (free trial / or first) lesson, we’ll have a phone call to discuss useful information about the age, level, and experience of a new student. Without an instrument present during a first lesson, we can already cover some basics about posture, bow hold, play Music Mind Games, and cover the first rhythms! Providing each student with a suitable instrument however, will be an important step. I can assist you in choosing the right size, advise you on where to find rental instruments, or help with a purchase. With your instrument present, we usually cover the basics of posture, holding the bow, how to hold the violin / viola, the first rhythms, and the goal is to make some music in a first lesson!
How do you teach online lessons?
For online lessons I use Zoom and sometimes FaceTime as platforms. With an online waiting room, password protection, and a Personal ID I find Zoom safe to use.
The sound quality can be drastically improved with an affordable Blue Yeti Microphone. I use Apple AirPods headphones as speakers, and the built-in camera of my laptop.
With a phone, iPad or desktop computer, online lessons are definitely possible as well.
In-person lessons are recommended for (young) beginning students, since a correct set-up and posture requires a more hands-on approach. If necessary, I would teach a (grand)parent, caretaker or family member online first, before providing online lessons to young beginners!