Ingrid Popp is the owner and violin and viola instructor for the Popping Violin and Viola Studio and has been teaching in the St. Louis area for 12 years. She holds a M.M. in Viola Performance and Post- Baccalaureate Certificate in Music Education from the University of North Carolina- Greensboro and a B.M. in viola performance from the University of Missouri-St. Louis- summa cum laude. She has also completed Suzuki training for violin books 1-8 with Ann Montzka Smelser, Kathleen Spring, and Daina Staggs and viola books 3-7 with April Losey and Sarah Montzka. She was previously on the faculty of the Webster University Community Music School, teaching both traditional and Suzuki violin and viola, and an adjunct instructor at Missouri Baptist University. She is an active performer in the St. Louis area, performing with the Alton Symphony, Webster Orchestra, Dubuque Symphony, and others.
Teaching Philosophy
I believe that the number one goal of music instruction is to foster a life-long love of music in every student. Each student is an individual with different goals, interests, and learning styles. As a private instructor, I have the luxury of being able to adapt my teaching style and curriculum to allow each student to reach their full potential and achieve their personal goals. This differentiation is fundamental to my approach to instruction.I believe that an important goal of effective instruction is to help each student to eventually become his or her own teacher. I often ask questions to help guide the student towards self-assessment, problem solving, and efficient and effective practice techniques. I fundamentally believe that each and every student is capable of achieving the highest level of musical excellence and that natural talent is far less important than the desire, motivation, and commitment required for musical achievement.
As I strive to create the ideal learning experience for every student, feedback from students and their parents is extremely important to me. If you find that you or your child is becoming bored or frustrated with their practice assignments or any aspect of their lesson experience please feel free to contact me with your questions or concerns so that I can work with you to make changes to ensure that their musical studies remain positive and productive.
