Jacobmann Nurtures Future Virtuosos

Do you suspect your child might be the next Itzhak Perlman?

Local violin teacher Leah Jacobmann believes every child has the potential to thrive in music with the right opportunities and support. Drawing on her wealth of experience, Jacobmann shares how to introduce children to music, particularly the violin, and foster their growth as young musicians.

“Performing in recitals and attending concerts is a vital part of a young musician’s life—and really, it’s something all children should experience,” she emphasizes. “Performing builds confidence, maturity, responsibility, and pride, while attending concerts teaches focus and respect for others. Plus, it supports our incredible local arts scene.”

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Jacobmann’s love for music runs deep. Growing up in Decatur, she was introduced to the violin early by her mother, Gloria Jacobson, a Suzuki violin teacher. “Music was always part of my home,” she recalls. “It’s something I’ve continued in my own family.”

Leah Jacobmann has appeared with symphony orchestras and is seen here in a recital.

A graduate of the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Music Performance in violin and piano, Jacobmann earned her master’s degree from Georgia State University. She further honed her skills through extensive Suzuki method training. Today, she teaches private violin lessons to students aged four to 18 from her home, where she continues to share her lifelong passion for music.

Her dedication has paid off. One of her students, an 18-year-old aspiring violinist, recently received invitations to audition at prestigious institutions like the Eastman School of Music and Oberlin Conservatory. Reflecting on her work, Jacobmann says with a smile, “I don’t teach adults. They’re just not as fun as kids!”

When is the right time to introduce children to music? Jacobmann’s answer is simple: as early as possible. “I think children should be exposed to music from birth,” she says, noting that playing music during tummy time can be a great start.

“Lessons can begin as early as four years old, provided you find the right teacher. It’s never too late to start—whether you’re four or 100!”

However, Jacobmann cautions parents that a musical journey requires a significant time commitment. “You’ll need to take your child to lessons, sit in on those lessons, and practice with them daily,” she explains. “Finding 30 minutes of quiet time each day can be tough, but without consistency, progress simply won’t happen.”

The age-old debate over talent vs. hard work is one Jacobmann approaches with nuance. “People often think you need to be born with some kind of magic to excel, but that’s not true for most things in life,” she says. “If you start at a good age, have a great teacher, and understand how to practice, you can achieve anything.”

Jacobmann believes that with the right support, every child can achieve confidence and discipline from music instruction.

Jacobmann introduces the concept of the Suzuki Triangle, which emphasizes collaboration between the teacher, parent, and student. “All children can learn music well when this triangle is balanced,” she says. “If any part is off, progress slows, and people mistakenly think the child lacks talent. When the balance is perfect, that’s when students truly soar.”

As an advocate of the Suzuki method, Jacobmann explains its foundation in the Mother Tongue Method. “Just like we learn to speak our native language through imitation and repetition, we can learn an instrument the same way,” she says.

“Initially, children learn to play by ear. Only later—anywhere from six months to four years after starting lessons—do I teach them to read music.”

This approach mirrors how children acquire language: first by listening and imitating, then by building a foundation before tackling the complexities of reading and writing.

Jacobmann believes music offers benefits far beyond the technical skill of playing an instrument. “Music teaches discipline, patience, and the ability to persevere through challenges,” she says. “It’s a gift that stays with children for their entire lives, whether they pursue music professionally or not.”

Her message to parents is clear: the journey might not be easy, but it’s deeply rewarding. “If you’re willing to invest the time and energy, the results are incredible,” she says. “Music has the power to transform lives.”

For parents considering music lessons for their children, Jacobmann’s wisdom provides both inspiration and practical guidance. Whether your child is destined for the concert stage or simply seeking a creative outlet, the first step is exposing them to the magic of music. As Jacobmann puts it, “With the right support, every child can achieve something extraordinary.”