Acclaimed musician John Michael Fox will be offering private violin and viola lessons this fall as part of Walters State’s Fine Arts Academy.

Fox is a member of the Oak Ridge Symphony and Assisi Italy Performing Arts Festival. He is a former member of the Knoxville Symphony and has taught in the Knoxville area since 1999. Fox is also a popular musician for weddings and other special events.

“I want to inspire the next generation of violinists. I am flexible and appreciate all styles of music. The violin and viola have been my lifetime passion,” Fox said. After learning the basics, students can learn both classical violin and Appalachian fiddling.

Lessons will be weekly and hours are flexible. The cost is $23 for a half-hour lesson and $46 per hour. In addition to music, Fox also teaches students to care for and maintain instruments. Fox also teaches at Lunsford’s Musical Instruments Inc. in Knoxville.

“Walters State is very proud to have a teacher of Mr. Fox’s caliber join our Fine Arts Academy. He brings with him many years of experience and a unique passion for the violin and the viola,” said Laura Ritter, assistant dean of humanities and head of the college’s choral program.

Classes are open to the community members and children aged four and older.

            To register, contact Fox at (865) 691-8897 or jmfoxtssf@yahoo.com.  For more information about the Walters State Fine Arts Academy, contact Ritter at (423) 585-6969 or Laura.Ritter@ws.edu.