Alexandra Fitzgerald is a violinist, pianist, and passionate teacher based in the D.C. area, where she balances life as a graduate student with a thriving teaching career. Whether she’s preparing for her own recital or helping a young student through their first performance, Alexandra brings creativity and connection into every lesson.
Alexandra began teaching during college in Charlotte, North Carolina, starting online during the pandemic before transitioning to in-person lessons. Teaching quickly grew from something she tried into something she wanted to do for life. “I used to want to be a performer,” she says, “but teaching became the part of music I loved most.” In addition to teaching and studying, she still finds time to perform when her schedule allows.
For Alexandra, one-on-one lessons are where the real magic happens. Having taught in group settings, she knows how hard it is to give students the individual attention they need. “With private lessons, I can really tailor everything to that student and what they need to work on each week,” she explains. “It makes a huge difference.”
Her lessons balance structure and spontaneity. Each one typically includes a warm-up, theory or rhythm work, and repertoire review. But beyond the fundamentals, Alexandra incorporates games, creative activities, and student-driven interests to keep things fun and engaging. Her lessons are never dogmatic. They’re shaped by what she knows will connect with the student in front of her.
Teaching the violin is where she feels the most passion. It was her first instrument, and the one where she feels she can express herself most fully. She often uses the Suzuki method, which she learned as a student, and finds it a natural fit for introducing young players to the violin.
Alexandra is also a big fan of hands-on learning. She uses a wide array of books, flashcards, and even student-drawn illustrations to make concepts stick. “I find tech can be distracting sometimes,” she says. “So I keep it interactive in other ways.”
At the heart of Alexandra’s teaching is the belief that music is a powerful voice, especially for those moments when words fall short. “Music helps me express myself when I don’t feel comfortable using my own voice,” she says. And she sees the same potential in many of her students. “A lot of them naturally use music that way too. It’s incredible to witness.”
Alexandra’s connection to her students, her love for teaching, and her dedication make her an invaluable part of the Lessons In Your Home community. She’s helping the next generation of musicians not just master their instruments, but discover their voices.
