What We Teach

Instruments & Areas of Study

  • Guitar (rock, classical, jazz, country, finger-style, electric or acoustic)

  • Electric Bass (all styles)

  • Violin / Fiddle (classical, Celtic, folk, bluegrass, improvisation)

  • Viola and Cello

  • Songwriting & composition

  • Ear training & theory

  • Improvisation for all skill levels

  • Audition prep (school programs, ensembles, college entry)

For All Ages & Levels

  • Kids (7+)

  • Teens

  • Adults

  • Beginners through advanced musicians
    No prior experience needed.

“Chris is one of the best teachers I have had. He will listen to you and teach you what you want to learn beginning at your current level. I would highly recommend him.”
— Tom (Guitar)

“Why Study With Us?”

Personalized Curriculum

Custom lesson plans tailored to suit every student’s goals and learning style.

Decades of Experience

Classical training, global performance experience, and 40+ years of teaching combined

Learn from Absolutely Anywhere

High-quality online lessons with materials delivered digitally. Perfect for tight schedules, multiple children, home schoolers. Zero drive time equals more time for practice, lower cost and lessened impact on the environment!

““What started as something to do during Covid turned out to be one of the best decisions I ever made for my son. The time he’s spent with Virginia James Music (Chris and Alicia) turned his childhood curiosity into the actual ability to become a full blown pianist, which has opened up so many opportunities for him, and sparked interest to try other instruments. It’s so much more than just music lessons for him, it’s become a part of who he is now and his self confidence has soared because of it.””
— Kari (Student Parent)

Basic

  • Perfect for the young, first time player. (Recommended for children beginning ages 7-10)

  • $195 per month

Intermediate

  • Perfect for the advancing beginner and intermediate player. (Recommended for ages 10-14 and beginner adults)

  • $260 Per Month

Advanced

  • Perfect for the advancing student of any age. (Recommended for advancing pre teen through adult students)

  • $325 Per Month

““Alicia was my violin instructor from elementary school through high school, and she’s been an amazing teacher and mentor. She’s incredibly warm and encouraging while also teaching technique and musicality at the highest level—truly the best music instructor I’ve ever had and I wish I could take her to college with me.””
— Klara (Violin)

How Lessons Work

    • 30/45/60 min weekly lesson

    • Zoom contact invite allows instructor to call like Facetime or Skype

    • Digital learning materials shared via personal student Google drive folder, email, or text

    • instrument

    • webcam enabled device (i.e. Ipad, phone, laptop…)

    • stable internet connection

    • quiet space

    • music stand book and pencil if reading

    • personalized curriculum

    • video and audio recordings of examples

    • students are encouraged to record their lessons on zoom

    • Currently accepting students on Wednesdays and Thursdays (contact for availability)

    • payment is made during or before the first lesson of each month for the coming months lessons

    • payment accepted via Venmo and Zelle

    • cancellations ARE NON REFUNDABLE

    • makeups may be offered at the instructors convenience and if schedule permits

    • payments to be made via Venmo or Zelle at or before the first lesson of each month

Meet Your New Online Music Teacher…

“Personalized online instruction from experienced, award-winning musicians.”

Christopher Farias

Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Mandolin, Theory, Ear Training and Songwriting

Christopher has since built a multifaceted career as a performer, composer, and recording artist, appearing with the RIC Chamber Orchestra, premiering original works, as well as recording and performing throughout New England and southern California—most notably opening with his trio for the Spin Doctors. Being a Bicho Scholarship award winner and John Lennon songwriting contest honoree With over 30 years of experience as a private music instructor, he is recognized for his ability to adapt lessons to each student’s needs, creating individualized instruction that supports rapid and meaningful musical growth. His extensive background, both academic and professional, underscores the depth of expertise he brings to every lesson.

Alicia Farias

Violin, Viola, and Cello

After graduating from Rhode Island College, Alicia enjoyed an extensive international performing career, expanding her versatility across genres including folk, rock, country, blues, Celtic, bluegrass, hip hop, jazz, and more. She has recorded and performed in the U.S., Europe, Australia, and Asia, collaborating with numerous artists and appearing on radio and in interviews abroad. Since returning to U.S. , she has performed with several bands and now composes and records as part of the duo Virginia James. Her broad stylistic range, global performance experience, and strong classical training bring a high level of credibility and adaptability to her private teaching, allowing her to guide students with a unique blend of skill, creativity, and real-world musical knowledge.

““I have been a violin student of Alicia’s since 2023, and she is an excellent violin teacher who encourages her students to play the genres of music they love, while still challenging them to experiment and grow! She is a great instructor, lending kindness and patience towards her students.””
— Lily (Violin)
Email
Chris (Text)
Alicia (Text)

Ready to begin your musical journey?

Book a free consultation/tech check and discover your personalized path forward.