In Shay’s lessons, students develop a strong musical foundation through:
Understanding and counting rhythms
Learning to read music
Developing ear-training and aural skills
Learning to play by ear
Building proper violin posture and bowing technique
Improving tone, intonation, and overall sound quality
Exploring a variety of musical styles
Learning creatively and collaboratively
Her teaching emphasizes confidence, musical expression, and making lessons enjoyable and meaningful at every stage.
Shay’s teaching philosophy is rooted in encouragement, creativity, and individualized learning — an approach that makes her violin lessons in Toronto supportive, enjoyable, and effective for learners of all ages. With a Master of Education in Guidance Counselling, she brings a warm, student-centered approach to music instruction. She adapts her lessons to each student’s strengths, goals, and pace, ensuring that every learner feels supported and inspired.
Whether preparing for performances, learning new repertoire, or exploring music for personal enjoyment, students work in a positive environment focused on growth, collaboration, and the joy of making music.
Shay has been playing the violin for more than 40 years. She began her studies in Boston, continued her musical journey in Montreal, and now performs in Toronto. Over the years, she has played with the Summerhill Orchestra, the Toronto Community Orchestra, chamber groups, rock bands, and theatre pit orchestras.
Her recent theatre work includes productions of The Sound of Music and Anne of Green Gables with the Hillcrest Community Players. She has also composed original music and harmonies for both live performances and recorded projects.
Alongside her musical experience, Shay teaches at George Brown College and holds a Master of Education in Guidance Counselling, giving her a strong background in supporting learners of all ages and abilities.
Taking violin lessons with a trained teacher helps students build confidence, develop discipline, and make steady progress. Shay supports learners at every stage with clear guidance and personalized feedback, making each lesson meaningful and encouraging. Whether you want to learn for fun, prepare for performances, or build long-term musical skills, Shay will help you reach your goals one step at a time.
Shay will help you reach your goals one step at a time. Shay is part of Elite Music Academy’s outstanding team of music teachers available across Toronto, offering students exceptional guidance and support as they learn and grow. Our team of music teachers can also prepare students for their Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) examinations, helping them build the skills and confidence needed to succeed. If you’re looking for violin lessons in Toronto and want to explore all of our available teachers, you can browse the full team here.
Book an introductory violin lesson with Shay to explore your musical interests and find the lesson length that fits your needs. After your trial lesson, you can continue in the way that works best for your schedule and personal goals. Students may book single, pay-as-you-go lessons through our online portal, but please note that casual lessons must be booked at least 24 hours in advance for the system to accept the booking. If you’d prefer to reserve a consistent weekly spot, our Lesson Coordination Team can set up your file — just email us at [email protected] to get started.
Book a Trial Lesson
for Only $35
Band Camp - Limited Spots!
March break camp: Click here.
July 8-12
Sax violin spot (2 spots left out of 2): Click here.
Drum spot (1 spot left out of 3): Click here.
Guitar spot (4 spots left out of 8): Click here.
Bass guitar spot (2 spots left out of 3): Click here.
Piano/Keys spot (2 spots left out of 4): Click here.
Singer spot (4 spots left out of 4): Click here.
July 15-19
Sax violin spot (2 spots left out of 2): Click here.
Drum spot (1 spot left out of 3): Click here.
Guitar spot (3 spots left out of 8): Click here.
Bass guitar spot (3 spots out of 3 spots): Click here.
Piano/Keys spot (1 spot left out of 4): Click here.
Singer spot (2 spots left out of 4): Click here.
July 22-26
Sax violin spot (1 spot left out of 2): Click here.
Drum spot (3 spots left out of 3): Click here.
Guitar spot (6 spots left out of 8): Click here.
Bass guitar spot (2 spots left out of 3): Click here.
Piano/Keys spot (3 spots left out of 4): Click here.
Singer spot (3 spots left out of 4): Click here.
Aug 12-16
Sax violin spot (2 spots left out of 2): Click here.
Drum spot (0 spots left out of 3): Click here.
Guitar spot (8 spots left out of 8): Click here.
Bass guitar spot (3 spots left out of 3): Click here.
Piano/Keys spot (2 spots left out of 4): Click here.
Singer spot (3 spots left out of 4): Click here.
March break camp: Click here.
July 8-12
Sax violin spot: Click here.
Drum spot: Click here.
Guitar spot: Click here.
Bass guitar spot: Click here.
Piano/Keys spot: Click here.
Singer spot: Click here.
July 15-19
Sax violin spot: Click here.
Drum spot: Click here.
Guitar spot: Click here.
Bass guitar spot: Click here.
Piano/Keys spot: Click here.
Singer spot: Click here.
July 22-26
Sax violin spot: Click here.
Drum spot: Click here.
Guitar spot: Click here.
Bass guitar spot: Click here.
Piano/Keys spot: Click here.
Singer spot: Click here.
Aug 12-16
Sax violin spot: Click here.
Drum spot: Click here.
Guitar spot: Click here.
Bass guitar spot: Click here.
Piano/Keys spot: Click here.
Singer spot: Click here.