Teaching Philosophy
Ms. Zalkind incorporates traditional technique building methods into her teaching. She believes it is her job as a teacher to help nurture her students and to help them develop, guiding her students to formulate their plans for musical advancement and growth.
Many of Ms. Zalkind’s students have won positions in some of the most prestigious orchestras. In addition, her students have diverse musical careers, ranging from music educators to recording artists, and more. Her students have also participated in prominent music festivals around the country.
Ms. Zalkind teaches students age 8 and older. She also teaches orchestral audition preparation and college audition preparation.
Here is an example down below of some of this work that she did in Haiti.
An Interview during the return layover in Atlanta Airport after the week in Jacmel, Haiti, for the first-ever Haitian Orchestra Institute (HOI) with 16 Members of the Utah Symphony (plus one from the Detroit Symphony), Maestro Thierry Fischer, Music Director in partnership with BLUME Haiti.
More than 100 music students gathered in the town of Jacmel from19 Music Schools from all over Haiti to devote a week to lessons, sectionals and large orchestra rehearsals leading up to the final concert with Utah Symphony Music Director conducting.
Testimonials
"I've been privileged to know Roberta Zalkind for more than 20 years as a teacher, mentor, colleague, and friend. Her vast, detailed knowledge of technique and repertoire is matched by her depth of experience utilizing these as an instructor. I have never met anyone as passionate about finding ways to connect with and motivate every student. Roberta cares deeply about her students, and works tirelessly to ensure their access to every opportunity and resource. She is a force for good in the world, and has inspired countless people to become better violists, musicians, and human beings.”
— Dr. Leslie Richards, DMA. Substitute at the Utah Symphony.
"As a teacher, Roberta is able to see each individual for their unique abilities and difficulties, and tailors her approach to their needs. Her students share a high degree of technical proficiency, quality in performance, and capacity for expression. I believe she is able to maintain such a high standard of playing in her studio because she sees a greater potential in her students than they are naturally inclined to see in themselves — and she kindly insists that they work hard to reach it. This was true in my case. She held me to a high standard of professionalism, both in my playing and in my life, and taught me what I needed to succeed in my career in music. Today, she continues to be a mentor to me, and I am grateful for her wisdom and inspiration."
— Josh Lohner, Professional Violist, Harrisburg Symphony, Cayuga Chamber Orchestra, Viola Professor and Chamber Music Coach at Roberts Wesleyan College
Roberta taught viola to three of my children. In addition to being a talented performer, Roberta has a unique gift for teaching. She helps students develop deep tone in their playing. She is incredibly patient and never made my children feel bad about not understanding a concept and would take the time to explain it. My children walked into every lesson feeling loved and encouraged to play their best."
— Julie Meredith, Salt Lake City, Utah
