I am a regular performer at Carnegie Hall, playing with the Orchestra of St. Luke's. Moreover, I have had the privilege of recording and performing with David Bowie for his album Heathen. My repertoire extends to chamber and contemporary music concerts, and I have been fortunate enough to tour extensively while always choosing to reside in New York City.
My professional training includes learning from esteemed instructors such as Erick Friedman, a protege of Jascha Heifetz, who guided me through my BM and MM studies at the Manhattan School of Music. Furthermore, I gleaned invaluable insights from Charlie Castleman at The Quartet Program and Chris Lee, concertmaster for NJ Symphony. However, I base my teaching on what I learned as a performing musician in New York City, observing the common principles that distinguished great players from simply idiosyncratic teachers.
Central to my pedagogy is teaching students how to use their body efficiently to avoid injury. This approach is essential, whether you're a novice eager to learn the right habits early, or a seasoned older player hoping to correct past mistakes. I work with students at all levels, from beginners of any age to young professionals preparing for auditions, and even older individuals who yearn to explore their curiosity to learn music.
Interested musical styles:
Rock, Blues, Country, Folk, Jazz, Classical, Recommendations available
Service location:
Remotely
Service Reviews
4.8
33 reviews
Service as described
4.8
Communication
4.8
Punctuality
4.8
DG
David G.
With his vast experience on the instrument, Gregor is a captivating violin instructor who adapts his lessons to suit each individual student. What I admire most about learning from him is his ability to relate my piano background to the violin, leveraging my already-acquired musical knowledge. Gregor easily and rapidly identifies my mistakes and suggests immediate remedies to improve my form. His expertise, patience, and humorous personality keep the hour-long sessions entertaining and engrossing. I wholeheartedly endorse him as an excellent teacher.
December 1, 2022
KW
Kyle W.
Gregor Kitzis is not only an exceptional teacher but also an inspiring one. He possesses excellent communication skills and tailors his teaching to match your pace and comfort. He is an affable and attentive individual, and within an hour of my lesson, he taught me various techniques to handle my violin and improve my sound quality. The entire session was unforgettable. I am eagerly anticipating my next lesson with him. ♡
August 17, 2022
JW
John W.
Before finding Gregor, I tried two other teachers as an adult beginner within a year and a half. However, I kept stopping and starting due to discomfort while holding the violin and playing with tension. This caused me to develop bad habits, making practicing a chore.
Luckily, when I reached out to Gregor about lessons, he described an approach to teaching and playing the violin that seemed perfect for me. Since then, the lessons have been amazing. Gregor is very focused on making sure I'm playing comfortably and troubleshoots any issues with me during our sessions. Within only a few weeks of lessons, I was able to hold the violin and play much more comfortably than I ever had before. Gregor keeps finding new ways to simplify my playing, allowing me to learn much more in each lesson than I ever did before.
For anyone looking to learn the violin correctly and avoiding the outcomes of speeding blindly through a method book, Gregor is hands down the best instructor.
July 6, 2022
JR
John R.
Mr. Kitzis is an exceptional violin teacher who has a plethora of positive attributes. He is well-versed in injury prevention and imparts essential positions to his students - a rare quality that sets him apart from other violin teachers. Additionally, Mr. Kitzis elucidates the reasoning behind his teachings, enabling students to incorporate his knowledge efficiently. He is a generous and passionate violin instructor who genuinely desires his students to excel. Mr. Kitzis has an eye for detail and acknowledges even the subtlest discrepancies, such as a violin not fitting one's body size, to ensure the best playing experience.
Despite my lack of prior experience with the violin, Mr. Kitzis employs his straightforward, intelligent teaching methods to cultivate my learning and appreciation of the instrument. I have been attending Mr. Kitzis' classes for six months and will continue to do so. Each lesson brings me gains in knowledge and growth in skill. The most significant aspect of Mr. Kitzis' classes is that they are enjoyable learning experiences. Therefore, I am grateful to Mr. Kitzis for his exceptional instruction, dedication, and enthusiasm in my violin education.
December 9, 2021
SC
Sarah C.
I've found Gregor to be one of the most patient and encouraging teachers I've ever had. After more than a decade, I've taken up the violin again, and he's helped me rediscover my love for the instrument.
Apart from his admirable work ethic, attention to detail, and numerous other qualities praised by others, what has particularly benefitted me is Gregor's extensive knowledge of different styles of violin. Having learned to play the Indian style (sitting down) with an Indian tuning style, I was apprehensive about switching to the Western style of tuning and posture. However, after only four lessons with Gregor, I feel completely at ease and am making great progress.
I unequivocally recommend Gregor as a violin teacher.
