Linda Kendall Fields

Request Lessons w/ Linda

Bio

Linda began her love affair with music over forty years ago, when as a child, she began participating in groups and taking private piano and violin lessons in a Kansas college community, abundant with talented and passionate artists and musicians. She excelled in classical violin and piano and played Swedish fiddle with a folk-dance group for six years. She continued her study of music and music education at Luther College in Decorah, Iowa and followed her passion for folk music through independent study in Scandinavia. After graduating from college, she moved to Minneapolis, Minnesota, received her master’s degree in Adult Education and played and recorded music with a variety of groups – from chamber orchestras to the St. Paul Civic Symphony. A mother of four children and grandmother of two, she has added the practical experience of their musical development to her life of music-making. Since moving to Asheville in 2002, she has played in a variety of settings – from classical orchestras and jazz groups to fiddle workshops.

Lessons with Linda

Linda has taught students of all ages throughout her life and is energetic, focused, encouraging, and empathic with her students. She believes in a sound classical foundation, with careful attention to technique and tone, but she is not limited to classical repertoire, since she has had a great deal of experience with fiddle (folk) music and some improvisational experience with jazz. Attention is given to each student’s interests and goals and the course of study is designed to meet those goals. Linda also offers ideas for strengthening mind-body practices to address the challenges that can arise during the study of the violin and piano.

Teaching Philosophy

Her teaching philosophy is as follows: “I am dedicated to facilitating the fullest expression of music through a holistic approach and a commitment to lifelong learning. This approach includes exploring one’s goals for music, developing effective practice and listening skills, applying effort to advance technique and musicianship, and moving past self-imposed barriers through mindfulness practices.”

Testimonials

“Being an adult learner, who was a complete beginner on the violin, I was terrified to start lessons!  Linda has been encouraging, gentle, kind, nurturing, and gracious.  I couldn’t not have gotten a more wonderful teacher!”
-N. Langsner

“I find Linda to be very talented, knowledgeable and enthusiastic. She is a gifted teacher and her love of music shows in her teaching. We feel lucky to have found her.”
-M. Frost

“I have known Linda Kendall Fields for some time. She is a violinist of real talent, an experienced performer and a gifted teacher. Linda is an outstanding communicator and a person of rare intelligence, sensitivity and compassion.”
-P. Statsky, faculty South Carolina Governor’s and Lawson Academy (Converse College)

“She really really helps me with my songs, and she is so nice!”
-Samantha Y., age 8

“You’re a good teacher, Linda. I love you Linda!”
-Emma S.G. age 8