Mikala Schmitz Studio

I am a classically trained cellist with Bachelor of Music and Master of Music degrees from Oberlin College Conservatory and the Cleveland Institute of Music, respectively. I also have taken numerous string pedagogy courses that have been the foundation of my success in teaching cellists of all ages and abilities. I am a highly organized, outcome-driven and motivated professional cello teacher with solid experience in teaching musical concepts (such as pitch, dynamics, tone color, texture and structure) as well as performance, composition, and reading and listening skills. Most importantly, I believe that a strong foundation in the physicality of holding the instrument itself is essential in ensuring a pain-free future for each aspiring young cellist. Each student will develop an understanding of these concepts and skills in the context of the various musical styles, periods and genres that they want to learn, whether it be classical, pop, rock, folk, jazz, and everything in between! You will find me to be a down-to-earth and amiable person, with excellent communication skills and professional presentation.

Throughout my teaching career, I have been driven to help students be motivated to achieve their very best. I strongly believe that music has the power to change lives; to enhance the social, cultural and spiritual lives of people; and serve as a profound medium of personal expression.