About
I am a professional cellist who takes pride in working with students of any age and level from beginners to professionals. In addition to a performing career spanning nearly 20 years, I have spent the last 7 years teaching, preparing students for auditions, as well university and conservatory entrance auditions. I have found that the best progress is made through a constant working relationship, and I look forward to working with you! Having completed my Bachelor and Masters Degrees at the Colburn Conservatory of Music, I am currently working on my post-graduate studies at the University of Southern California. I have won top prizes in national and international competitions, and have worked closely with some of the most esteemed musicians and teachers in the world. As a performer, I have played in concerts and music festivals across the US, as well as Europe and Asia. I often perform with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, in addition to solo and chamber music performances. Most recently, I performed as a concerto soloist in Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles.
My favorite part about working with students is watching the progress that is being made week-to-week, and seeing the students using their skills and work ethic to fix any problems they encounter. Diligent and methodical work leads to an enjoyable musical experience! Learning to master an instrument is a life-long process, but well-worth the time!
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I like getting to know each student on our first meeting. It is important for me to get a good sense of a student's personality, current musical level, values, and aspirations in music. I like having a sense of a student's time allotment for practicing throughout the week, as well as what they wish to play or achieve during their time with me. I typically have the student play a bit of what they are working on, just to assess their playing and see what we should focus on first. I try to not only focus only on the technical side of playing, but also musical aspects of cello playing. All of this information allows me to give each student very personalized and specific attention. Getting to know the student helps us both work as productively and efficiently as possible towards a common goal.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
Bachelor and Master's Degrees in Cello Performance, Colburn Conservatory of Music Graduate Certificate in Cello Performance, University of Southern California Colburn Conservatory of Music, Teaching Assistant Pascale Music Institute, Faculty member I began my musical studies at the age of 5, and have pursued a career in music ever since. Since my first years of playing cello, I have juggled orchestral, chamber music, and solo playing at an equally engaged level. I completed my Bachelor and Master's Degrees at the Colburn Conservatory of Music in Los Angeles, and am currently working on my post-graduate studies at the University of Southern California. Along the way, I have had the privilege of working and collaborating with some of the finest musicians and pedagogues in the world.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
$70/hour $55/45 minutes $40/30 minutes
One hour lessons are typical, but I'm flexible and happy to adjust as necessary!
How did you get started teaching?
My most recent teaching positions include being the teaching assistant to my professor at the Colburn Conservatory of Music, where I work frequently with the Conservatory/university-level, high school, and middle school students. Also, I am on faculty at the Pascale Music Institute where I work with several students on a weekly basis. I first began my teaching career in high school by helping younger students work through their orchestral repertoire. This eventually developed into one-on-one private lessons where we would work on solo, chamber music, and orchestral repertoire, as well as focusing our attention on the fundamentals of cello playing. I aim to promote a student in every facet of cello playing.
What types of students have you worked with?
I work with any age/level. I have had students just learning to play and read music from the very beginning, as well as elementary school, middle school, college level, and semi-professional adults. I am quick to adapt to any and all of the student's needs. I am patient and stick with students as long as it takes to make progress!
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
My most recent project has me working with my conservatory cello professor. As his teaching assistant, I am able to work with the college-level students. I build off of the work my teacher has made with each student, and help expand and deepen the ideas promoted in the lessons. It is a tag-team effort to have a common goal in mind for each students, as well as mapping out the methods in which we achieve those goals.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Don't feel intimidated by the idea of tackling a new hobby or activity. I have never met anyone that has regretted learning or playing an instrument, so I guarantee you will find gratification and fulfillment in working together to learn to play cello, whether for your friends and family or just for yourself!