Listed below: San Francisco Bay Area string instrument teachers offering private lessons in a variety of styles.
Please contact the teachers directly for information on studio location, rates and policies.
Violin teachers organized by location then last name:
Alameda
Caitlin Keen/ Alameda Violin
www.alamedaviolin.com
Location: West End of Alameda
Ages: 2.5-college
Levels: Beginning to advanced violin and viola lessons
Styles: Classical, theory and chamber tutoring, performance injury and anxiety support
Description: Lesson emphasis is on a fun, well rounded, supportive, and high quality music education for those students who study solely for enrichment purposes, to those who seek to pursue professional careers. Though all students may not choose to become professional musicians, we believe that they all will lead more enriched lives because of their musical experience!
About: Committed to teaching all ages, Caitlin has taught for over 17 years privately as well as in group settings in Baltimore, Massachusetts, Colorado, and California, and has served as a faculty lecturer at UC Davis and Smith College and staff at Johns Hopkins University. She currently teaches as a substitute at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and performs throughout the Bay Area. She is a certified member of the American String Teachers Association and American Federation of Musicians.
Contact by email Catilin Keen
Wakeford Gong
Location: Alameda and Kensington
5 to adult, Beginner to Advanced
Style: Classical, Traditional
About: Wakeford Gong teaches classical violin to children and adults using a flexible and playful approach. He tailors his teaching to the unique needs of the individual. Lessons are designed to inspire students to view their instrument as a means to express themselves. He believes that even the beginning student can make the violin sing.
Wakeford holds a BA in music from the University of California at Berkeley and is an active violinist in Bay Area orchestras.
Contact by email Wakeford Gong or (510) 435-4962
Lylia Guion
www.joliesnotes.com
Location: Alameda-Bay Farm
All ages and levels
Style: Classical, Suzuki, Folk, Jazz, Pop etc
About: Lylia offers private violin lessons in Alameda. She has been teaching for over 20 years, in France and in California. She has an extensive experience in orchestras and chamber music, playing all around the Bay Area. She likes to play and teach all kinds of music. Using her experience as a Feldenkrais practitioner, she is committed to helping other musicians learn more about their own pattern of movement as well as playing with comfort and joy. Check her website for more info: www.joliesnotes.com
Susan Worland
Location: Starland Music in Alameda, also in Alameda, Berkeley and Oakland, Alameda
Ages, levels and styles: Most of my current students are in middle school or high school. I also have enjoyed teaching adults returning to violin. I'm particularly interested in teaching people (of any age) interested in Polish, Scottish, and American fiddling styles.
About: My main classical music gig is the Santa Cruz Symphony, and other "Freeway Philharmonic" gigs that come up. I love Polish and other Eastern European music styles, and perform often for weddings, parties, etc. And my other greatest love is Scottish Country Dance music, which I play with my husband and in two local bands.
Contact by email Susan Worland
Albany
Zoë Merrill
Location: Albany
Ages: 5 to 18 years old
Levels: Beginning to advanced violin
About: With over 25 years of playing experience, and over a decade of teaching experience, I aim to use my varied background to share my love for music with my community. My passion lies in making music fun, engaging, accessible, and meaningful, whether I’m teaching a beginning student, or collaborating with world-class musicians.
Contact by email violinlessonswithzoe@gmail.com
Please visit my website for more information!
KC Still
www.kcstill.com
Location: Albany and Crowden School of Music
Ages: 4-adult
Styles: Traditional and Suzuki
Berkeley
Nils Bultmann
www.nilsbultmann.com
Location: Berkeley Area
Levels: Beginner to Advanced
Styles: Violin and Viola private lessons
About: Nils offers a creative approach to music making and string playing with an emphasis on technique, relaxation, and enjoyment. He is a composer and professional violist with a background in performance as well as a PHD from UC Berkeley in Music Composition. Nils has much experience teaching middle and high school students and also adults who wish to try string playing or who have played before and wish to get back into the instrument.
Contact by email: Nils Bultmann
Adrianna Ciccone
baytreemusicstudios.com
Private, partner & group lessons in Berkeley, Oakland & Emeryville.
Style: Fiddle (Irish, Scottish, Cape Breton, Québecois, Appalachian), Classical, Pop, & beyond!
All ages and levels.
Adrianna Ciccone is a sought after performer and educator with over a decade of teaching experience in violin, fiddle, & piano. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, she directed her first music camp as a teenager, and has since taught private lessons and workshops throughout North America. Adrianna takes an individualized approach to music education, and especially enjoys exposing her students to new styles & traditions while developing a strong technical foundation & a lifetime love of music.
Adrianna is fascinated by music's ability to create lasting friendships and unite a community, and strives to encourage creative collaborations among her students. She directs the Bay Leaf Fiddlers - a group of middle & high school-aged string players who gather weekly to creatively explore traditional music from around the world. More fiddles, violins, violas & cellos are always welcome!
Contact Adrianna - baytreemusicstudios@gmail.com
Mary Dougherty
Location: near North Berkeley BART - indoor/backyard lessons available
Ages: 7 years old and up (adult beginners welcome!)
Levels: Beginning to advanced violin and viola lessons
About: Orchestra director at Berkeley High School
Violin staff instructor and conductor at BMUZ Berkeley Music camp and Cazadero perfoming arts camp
Contact by email Mary Dougherty
Sumaia Jackson
All ages and levels
Currently accepting students in person and via Skype!
About: An alumni of Berklee College of Music, now based out of the Bay Area, Sumaia Jackson has been immersed in many folk and roots music traditions including Bluegrass, Appalachian Old Time, Celtic, and more recently, Jazz. With a deep classical background as well, she has a knack for passing on the nuances of various stylistic languages. From private instruction, coaching orchestra and chamber music groups, leading workshops, and teaching at fiddle camps, Sumaia has worked with players of all ages and levels in a multitude of styles. Learn how to groove on fiddle tunes, take solos, and back up your friends!
www.sumaiajacksonmusic.com
Contact by email Sumaia Jackson
Dennie Mehocich
themagicflute.com/lessons/1163/dennie-mehocich
Principal Instrument: Violin, beginning through professional level.
Other instruments taught: Beginning-Intermediate piano; Beginning-Intermediate cello
Location: 1345 Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Berkeley, W-Fri-Sat;
Ages/ Styles: 3 and up. Dennie is a registered Suzuki violin teacher and offers semi-private violin lessons for students of similar ages and their parents. Please call for information regarding private or semi-private lessons.
Marin Symphony violinist Dennie Mehocich has served as strings consultant at Davidson Middle School, San Rafael High School and coached for the Marin Symphony Orchestra youth programs. She directed strings programs at Marin Waldorf and Novato Charter School. She has taught private lessons for over 30 years. In addition to traditional and fiddling methods she is also a registered Suzuki violin teacher and member of SAA. She offers private and semi-private violin lessons for students in the east bay and Marin, either in-home or at her studios on either side of the bay.
About: "I like working with those students who show a very high degree of interest, who know they like the instrument, want skills and will work to get it. I like to work with returning adults who are serious about improving and will follow my direction in lessons each week. I like working with younger students who have a lot of support from their families, and students who commit to attending weekly lessons and daily practice at home, and helping every student to learn to love the process by which music is made. This is what it takes to develop musical talent."
Contact (text): (415) 686-4110 or e-mail: dennie46@att.net
Wendy Reid
www.treepieces.net
Location: Berkeley (across from Live Oak Park), or online with Zoom or FaceTime
Levels/Ages: Beginners to Advanced -All Ages
Styles: Suzuki/traditional violin
Bio: Currently teaching at my studio in Berkeley, I previously taught violin/ensemble at Holy Names University PMD and music composition at Mills College for 30+ years until the closing of both music depts in 2023. Composer-violinist-teacher, I have received degrees from Mills College (M.A.), USC School of Performing Arts (B.M.), attended Stanford University Center for Computer Research in Music and Acoustics, and studied privately with Nadia Boulanger in Paris. Please find more info on my website.
Contact by email: Wendy Reid treepieces@gmail.com
Lila Sklar
lilasviolin.com
Location: Studio is in South Berkeley/North Oakland.
Ages and levels: Youngest student is 5 and oldest is 85! I love to teach beginners but I also specialize in intermediate-advanced players.
Styles: Classical, and various world music styles, specializing in Romany Jazz, music from the Balkans, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.
About: Lila trained and apprenticed for over 15 years with Ms. Sherry Kloss, assistant to famed violinist Jascha Heifetz. Lila has been teaching for over 25 years and has worked with students of all ages and levels of ability. Lila has experience teaching classes in improvisation and a variety of musical styles at Middle Eastern Music Camp, Lark In The Morning, and the Jascha Heifetz Symposium Of Individual Style.
Contact Lila by email
Castro Valley
Christy Kyong
Location: Castro Valley, CA
Ages, levels and styles: Beginning to advanced, specializing in age 4 to 5th grade. Christy uses combined methods from Suzuki, ABRSM, Paul Rolland, and Mimi Zweig.
About: Christy is a Bay Area teacher with 15 years of experience with a Bachelor of Arts in Music and Interdisciplinary Studies in Early Childhood from UC Berkeley and a Masters of Music in Violin Performance from Northwestern University.
Contact by email Christy Kyong
Concord/Walnut Creek
Rebecca Wishnia
www.rebeccawishnia.com
Location: Oakland (Rockridge) and San Francisco (West Portal) home studios
Ages & Levels: Enthusiastic violinists of all ages and levels
Styles: Classical
About: Born and raised in San Francisco, I am a faculty member of several Bay Area institutions, including Las Positas College, The Crowden Music Center, New World Music Academy, and Villa Sinfonia Foundation. In 2017, my teaching was the subject of a short documentary produced by SFGovTV.
I strive to instill in my students an appreciation for the richness of the musical world. Together, we work to creatively set goals, solve problems, and confidently face new situations. Visit my website to read more about my teaching style, and to download my original arrangements for students.
Contact: rebeccawishnia@gmail.com
East Bay
Anthony Martin
Location: Greater Bay Area
Ages: Intermediate & Advanced Coaching Only
Styles: Classical and Baroque
About: Anthony Martin offers coaching in baroque style and technique to players of period or modern string instruments, and is happy to coach intermediate and advanced players as well as ensembles.
He has wide experience as soloist and ensemble player with many of the world’s most renowned historically-informed groups, and was a founding member of Orchestra of the Eighteenth Century (Amsterdam), Boston Early Music Festival Orchestra, Smithsonian Chamber Players, Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra, New Esterházy Quartet, Cantata Collective, American Bach Soloists, among many others. His principal violin studies were with Berl Senofsky and Joseph Silverstein. He has been a repeat faculty member of the Smithsonian Haydn Quartet Academy and is currently Director of the Stanford Baroque Soloists
Contact: a.p.martin@earthlink.net
Dr. Sarah Wood
Location: East RIchmond Heights
Ages: Motivated students of all ages
Styles: Suzuki, Traditional, Classical, Alexander Technique
About: Hello! I manage a vibrant violin (and viola!) studio where my students participate in studio classes, recitals, and group performances throughout the year. In addition, many of my students perform with area youth orchestras, and older students have gone on to study music in college.
I perform extensively with the San Francisco Symphony as well as other area ensembles. Growing up, I trained locally with Robin Sharp, Zaven Melikian, and Nancy Ewing, and went on to study at the Cleveland Institute of Music with Paul Kantor and William Preucil. Later, I earned my doctorate in violin performance from the University of Colorado at Boulder where I served as Dr. Lina Bahn's teaching assistant and completed a lengthy research project in the Netherlands studying the Alexander Technique and ergonomic chin rests. I also am Suzuki Method certified, and I am also now an Alexander Technique teacher.
I try to teach in the most effective, engaging, and inspiring way to achieve a students' goals. Visit my webpage; www.sarahemilywood.com for more info on my teaching style and influences.
Ondine Young
www.ondineyoung.com
Location: East and North Bay
Ages: all ages and levels
Styles: Classical and Baroque
About: Ondine is a violin/violist, musical director/conductor, and educator who works with many organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area. She earned a doctoral degree from the University of Southern California in choral conducting and early music performance.
Currently she works with Piedmont Pianos/East Bay Childrens’ Chorus, and Crowden School of Music; in addition to occasionally assisting with Old First Concerts San Francisco, Superpower of the Song, Notes Music Academy and more. Ondine also performs with many local ensembles such as Philharmonia Baroque, Albany Consort, Sacramento Baroque, Berkeley Community Chorus and Orchestra, Hollywood Chamber Orchestra, Vallejo Symphony, Jubilate, San Francisco Early Music Society, Cantare, WAVE, Junior Bach, Arlington Arts, Juxtapositions, Dirty Cello, Jazz Mafia, among others. Ondine has been invited to guest conduct Oakland Summer Reading Orchestra, Community Women’s Orchestra, Awesome Orchestra, Villa Sinfonia, Sacred and Profane, MidAmerica at Carnegie Hall; plus Ondine and family are guest performers at Christ Church Los Altos and many local churches.
Ondine co-founded “Tea, Talks, and Treasures” at The Pacific Boychoir Academy. She is on the board of directors of Dandelion Dance Theater and Winds Across the Bay. Her past roles include teaching and conducting for: Marin Girls Chorus, National Children’s Chorus, Golden State/California Youth Orchestras, Marin/Oakland Schools for the Arts, Sound Minds/California Symphony, Bentley School, Stern Grove, and the Carmel Bach Festival. She has also conducted San Francisco Boys' and Girls’ Choruses, Kairos Youth Choirs, and many bell/Church choirs (CC, UMC, Catholic, Episcopal, Lutheran).
Prior to living in the Bay Area, Ondine spearheaded the choral program at the University of San Diego. She studied violin, viola, choral, orchestral conducting, and performance practice at the University of California Santa Cruz and Santa Barbara. For more information on Ondine, visit her website www.ondineyoung.com
El Cerrito
Eric Chin
www.chineric.com
Ages: Middle School age to Adult
Style: Classical
Will travel
contact by email Eric Chin
Nancy Ewing
All ages and levels
Styles: classical, modified Suzuki
Location: El Cerrito/will travel
phone: (530) 559-1688 email: Nancy Ewing
Victoria Yakubovich
All ages and levels, especially professionally interested and dedicated
Styles: classical
Location: El Cerrito
About: Victoria was born and graduated in Moscow, at the Gnesin State Music Academy, 1996, continued her association with it in a postdoctoral program as a Soloist, an Ensemble and Orchestra Artist and as a High School and Conservatory music teacher. Since 1993, she has performed with top Moscow orchestras including the Moscow State Symphony Orchestra and the Moscow Symphony Orchestra under P. Kogan, Nemirovich-Danchenko Moscow Academic Theater Orchestra.
Ms. Yakubovich has 20 years of teaching experience. She was a professor assistant at the Academy for more than 15 years, teaching young musicians 19-25 years old. Many of them perform in the best European orchestras now.
She also has great experience with children 4-16 years old. Some of those young talents got prizes at the competitions and festivals. Victoria had a successful tutoring practice and conducted an ensemble of violinists with a large and diverse repertoire.
Since 2016, Victoria lives and work at her studio in El Cerrito. She is a member of MTAC, prepares for all kind of tests, including London ARSMB testing program, auditions and competitions. Her students performed at Carnegie hall, got prizes at BAMA competition, NCYT competition.
Students of all ages are welcome, especially professionally interested and dedicated. Russian violin school is famous all over the world accented on perfect posture, nice rich timbre and virtuoso fluency.
Phone: 650-206-3975 Email: Victoria Yakubovich
El Sobrante
Edith Szendrey
www.sfnapamusic.com
Edith Szendrey teaches all ages and levels of motivated students and music lovers in the Classical Style, with some Modern, Jazz, Alternative and Fiddle thrown in for fun. Edith encourages her students to be involved in many different musical experiences and in 2013 she founded the Hawaii Performing Arts Festival Junior Strings Program on the Big Island.
In 2017 she collaborated with Chee Yun Kim and other great musicians to form the SD Festival Junior Program at San Domenico School in San Anselmo, and often spends summers teaching chamber music at the Pacific Music Institute, summer music festival in Honolulu. Of Hungarian roots, she holds a Bachelors degree in Music from the University of British Columbia. Edith taught for 16 years at the East Bay Waldorf School, was the music director for 9 years at the Greenwood School in Mill Valley and is now teaching at the Golden Bridges School in San Francisco.
In addition to inspiring young musicians, she has performed in many chamber music concerts with the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra, the San Francisco Choral Society and the Arlekin String Quartet. She is an experienced and versatile musician, having worked with many great artists including Wayne Wallace, Barbra Streisand and Diana Krall. Orchestral experience includes the Marin Symphony, Berkeley Symphony, and the San Francisco Opera Orchestra.
Edith also enjoys exploring nature with her children, walking her dogs at dawn, swimming under the stars, and hiking with her camera.
Contact: phone: (510)758-7870 email: Edith Szendrey
Lafayette
Chloe Ross/ The Studio Violin
www.thestudioviolin.com
Ages/ styles: Suzuki style violin lessons, students from 3-18.
About: The Studio Violin is a warm and welcoming Suzuki violin school centrally located in downtown Lafayette, offering expert violin instruction to children ages 3-18. Chloe's love for teaching technique to children and building beautiful tone in every violinist, pave the foundation for the program. The Studio Violin's private lessons are held weekly and group classes bi-weekly, in our sunny studio. Come join our violin family and enjoy learning to play with joy!
Contact by email: chloe@thestudioviolin.com
Mill Valley
Craig Reiss
https://themagicflutelessons.com/lessons/listing/craig-reiss/
Location: I teach in my home studio in Mill Valley, but currently am also teaching online via Zoom or FaceTime
About: I am a professional violinist with the San Francisco Opera and Ballet Orchestras with advanced degrees in Music Performance and Pedagogy from Boston University and The Royal College of Music in London. I have taught violin and given master classes in the United States and England since 1987. Students of all ages are welcome, from 8 to 80! My students include former concertmasters of the Marin Youth Symphony, and others have gone on to continue their music studies at major universities such as UC Berkeley, Lawrence University and NYU.
For younger students I use a modified Suzuki approach, focusing on musical games and the joy of playing songs as quickly and easily as possible. For more advanced students I use a balanced approach of technical studies and appropriate repertoire while still emphasizing that playing the violin should be fun!
Please call Craig Reiss at 415-640-4246 for a free introductory lesson to see if you are interested in studying the violin with me. References available on request.
Oakland
Ilana Blumberg Thomas
Location: El Cerrito
Contact: (925) 784-9611
Ages/Abilities: All, from age 2 through adults, beginner through conservatory level.
Styles: Classical, folk, pop, traditional
About: I have taught lessons for 25 years, teaching privately as well as at U.C. Berkeley, SUNY Albany, and coaching clinics throughout the country. I am also an active performer, and you'll see me on concert stages all over the Bay Area. I believe passionately in following the individual musical path of each student, playing a creative role as they establish the technical fundamentals that bring their goals within reach. My style is experientially based, tailored to work with the talents and limitations of each individual, much like a parent would with his/her own child. I use a blend of materials, incorporating the Suzuki materials alongside a wide range of other classical and non-classical repertoire, and believe that strong music reading skills are critical to success and enjoyment.
Visit my site: sfweddingviolinist
Charboneau Collaborative Strings
www.ccstrings.org
Instruments and styles: Violin and Viola, Suzuki and Traditional
Ages/ Levels: Ages 3 - Adult, Beginner through Advanced
Contact: (510)336-9787/ daniellecharboneau@att.net
About: Danielle Charboneau’s studio works to build an environment that supports all students’ abilities to grow from the very beginning stages through advanced levels of musical fluency and mastery. Students, depending on age, can choose between the Suzuki and Traditional methods for both violin and viola as well as chamber music which also includes cellists. All students develop the skills necessary for fluency and easeful expression, including advanced technique preparation and mastery, reading, theory, informed musical decision making, and practice strategies necessary for problem solving and growth while enjoying an environment and community of joyful engagement and discovering a belief in their ability to bring more beauty into the world with their playing and their presence.
The Collaborative Strings program offers violin and viola lessons, group classes, and chamber music coachings for students at all levels. Students range from young beginners partnering with their parent within the context of the Suzuki method through older, more advanced students deepening their skills, ownership, and level of engagement. Danielle engages her Suzuki teacher training, 35 years experience performing and teaching both Suzuki and Traditional education, Integrative Manual Therapy, Alexander Technique, and mediation and conflict resolution training to offer education supporting the whole child.
James Choi
www.jameschoiviolinstudio.com
Location: Holy Names University, also teaches in Fremont and Dublin
Instruments: Violin, Viola
Ages/Style: I enjoy working with students of all levels and ages. Hard-work > Talent!
Contact: jameschoiviolinstudio@gmail.com
Sergi Goldman-Hull
Location: Home studio in Oakland, may be willing to travel within Oakland
Ages, levels, and styles: All levels and styles from traditional Classical, to Suzuki, to pretty much whatever you'd like to do, provided we get the basic foundation down
About: As a proud member of The Bay Area's "Freeway Philharmonic", I regularly perform with 5 different orchestras. I have been teaching Violin for 15 years and call upon my 30+ years of experience on the instrument I love. I'm very passionate about the violin and all kinds of music, from Bach to Beatles (and everything in between), so if you're as inspired by music and the Violin as me, or just want to learn the basics, we would be a good match.
Contact violingiant@gmail.com
Clodagh Martin
Ages: 5 - Adult
Styles: Classical, Suzuki, Fiddle, Improvisation, Theory Tutoring
Location: Rockridge, home studio
Please see website for bio and more details.
Contact by email: clodaghmartin94@gmail.com
Mia Nardi-Huffman
mianardihuffman.com.
Location: Grand Lake/Piedmont area
Ages/Levels: 3 and up (including adults), from beginners to advanced players.
Style: Classical violin and viola,
About: I've been teaching for 9 years in a variety of settings, including the Chamber Music Institute at the University of Maine, Kipp Bay Academy in San Francisco, and Inspire Music, where I am currently a Senior faculty member. I enjoy an active career as a performer, and look forward to sharing my love of music with the next generation of violinists and violists! Each student should expect lessons that are tailored to their individual goals and needs, and combine a solid technical foundation with repertoire that they connect with.
Contact: mia.nardihuffman@gmail.com
Darcy Noonan
darcynoonanviolin.com
Location: North Oakland. Will travel on specific days
Ages 4 and up. Beginners to advanced students.
Styles: I specialize in Irish traditional music.
About: I studied classical music with the Suzuki method from age 5-18. As a young adult I fell in love with the community and folklore of Irish music. After moving to Ireland to study music I am back home spending my time teaching and performing.
Contact info: darcynoonanviolin@gmail.com
Rachel Patrick
www.patrickviolinstudio.com
Instruments taught: Violin and viola
Location: Private student in the Lake Merritt neighborhood of Oakland
Ages/Levels: 2 and up (through adults), beginners all the way through very advanced players.
Style/Lesson Description: Classical. I use a combination of Suzuki, Rolland and Zweig methods in private lessons and group classes. Learning the violin can be challenging, but fun and very rewarding. Musical expression can be such a wonderful way to communicate with others! While I use different methods to teach technique and foundation, my style of teaching is very much geared towards the individual student and creating a positive environment in which anyone has the ability to learn how to play.
About: Rachel has taught in a variety of settings for the last 12 years. Previously an Assistant Instructor in violin at Indiana University and a teacher for the IU's String Academy program (the same program in which she grew up studying), Rachel enjoys teaching private and group lessons as well as coaching chamber music. Rachel also has training and four years of experience as a teacher within the growing El Sistema music education movement. In addition to her private studio, Rachel has an active life as a performing musician, frequently recording and performing chamber music with her trio and various other ensembles.
Victoria Perenyi
www.victoriaperenyi.com
Location: Oakland/San Francisco
Ages/ Levels: 8 and above, beginner-advanced
Styles: Classical, Suzuki, Jazz, Improv
About: Alongside coaching youth chamber ensembles and holding her private teaching studio, Victoria is a freelance violinist in the San Francisco Bay Are. Her lessons are uniquely tailored to each student- be they 8 or 80! Utilizing numerous methods to fit the individual students goals and dreams, Victoria aims to bring out the love of music in her pupils.
Belinda Salvidge
Instruments taught: Violin, Cello, Mandolin, Piano
Website: belindacello.com, belindaviolin.com
Location: Glenview neighborhood, lower hills, Oakland
About: With a background in psychology and expressive arts, my teaching focus is on nurturing each student's unique style of self expression and creative flow while they develop confidence and discipline. I'm very good with young beginners who have a hard time focusing and adult beginners who are just starting or re-entering the world of music. In addition to learning fundamental classical techniques and music theory/note reading, my students learn how to improvise and play fiddle music from all over the world, practicing these skills together at my backyard jams!
Contact info: Phone 5107123316, Email: bbbuthod@yahoo.com
Lila Sklar
lilasviolin.com
Location: Studio is in South Berkeley/North Oakland.
Ages and levels: Youngest student is 5 and oldest is 85! I love to teach beginners but I also specialize in intermediate-advanced players.
Styles: Classical, and various world music styles, specializing in Romany Jazz, music from the Balkans, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe.
About: Lila trained and apprenticed for over 15 years with Ms. Sherry Kloss, assistant to famed violinist Jascha Heifetz. Lila has been teaching for over 25 years and has worked with students of all ages and levels of ability. Lila has experience teaching classes in improvisation and a variety of musical styles at Middle Eastern Music Camp, Lark In The Morning, and the Jascha Heifetz Symposium Of Individual Style.
Contact Lila by email
Debbie Spangler
Learn to play the violin from a New England Conservatory graduate and former Silverstein student, all ages and levels welcome! Anyone can learn an instrument at any age, with motivation, patience, proper training, and encouragement. I am a member of Oakland Symphony, Symphony Silicon Valley (formerly the San Jose Symphony), and Fremont Symphony.
Contact by email debspang@yahoo.com or (510) 531-1105
Elbert Tsai
www.elberttsai.com
Location: Studio in Rockridge, on the border of Oakland and Berkeley.
Ages/ Styles: I specialize in violin students ages 10-18 for whom violin is a serious endeavor. Younger children and adults are also welcome to contact me.
Please visit my website for a complete bio, my teaching philosophy, and audio/video samples of my performances.
Tatiana Truno
www.tatianatrono.com
Location: My home is in Oakland, but I can travel to you!
Ages: 5 and up
Style: Classical Violin or Viola
About: My studio is a positive and encouraging place, where each student learns the fundamentals to be able to play the violin or viola. We will fine tune motor skills, build confidence, self-expression, and more! My job is to create a healthy & happy environment to foster the realization that you can reach your potential. I like to trust that every student of mine keeps music for life.
I grew up with the Suzuki tradition, and have chosen to continue that method as a way of passing on my love for violin & viola. I recently participated in Suzuki teacher training for Unit 1 with Ed Sprunger at the Los Angeles Suzuki Institute. I am also familiar with other methods and traditions as additions for all who are curious in broadening their musical horizons.
Contact: tatianatrono@gmail.com
San Francisco
Stephanie Bibbo
Location: Home studio in San Francisco (SFSU area)
Ages/ levels: Ages 4+ beginner-advanced
Style: Classical (Suzuki & Traditional methods)
Email Stephnbibbo@gmail.com
Toby Branz
Instrument: Violin
Location: San Francisco and remote
Ages: 3 to any age
Style: Suzuki method
I specialize in teaching beginning and intermediate violin students of all ages. I teach most of my violin students using the Suzuki method and repertoire.
I was born and raised in the Bay Area, and I still love living, working, playing, and singing here. I am passionate about music education and I strongly believe in lifelong learning. We're never too old (or too young!) to make music. I received my B.A. from Pomona College, my Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 2010, and my Postgraduate Diploma in Vocal Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 2011. I received my Suzuki Teacher Certification in Books 1, 2, 3, and 4 at the Hartt Suzuki Institute and the Advanced Suzuki Institute at Stanford. I'm always working to get fresh new ideas from colleagues & from my own musical practice and compositions to invigorate my teaching, playing and singing.
Please visit my website, www.musicwithtobysf.com, for more information on my studio and teaching, and to contact me.
Leah Froyd
www.leahviolin.com/
Location: San Francisco area
Offering: private violin lessons
Lesson format: in-person or remote/virtual - will also travel
Teaching Philosophy: The importance of the arts has been an unchanging staple of society— it binds us together through both our logical and artistic senses and clears the path to new ways of thinking and creative processes. Music has the power to soothe the soul, body, and mind if one allows it to permeate through the system. It is therefore my overarching goal to help students achieve a deeper understanding and recognition of themselves through music. There is a great deal of importance in allowing music to effect and run through the entire body from the beginnings of musical development. I have personally struggled with this facet of being a musician in the past and so I understand the struggles of allowing oneself the vulnerability to connect to art and music. Yet, I have found that the personal and artistic payoff is well worth the hard work put into the art form.
On the topic of hard work, I am completely invested in cultivating a growth mindset for each student. In detail, this mindset is centered on the positive aspects of the learning process. It encourages students to explore the things they find difficult with curiosity instead of self doubt; flexibility and patience in place of dogmatic routine; and out of self encouragement rather than out of fear. I love to help students flourish through their own hard work and perseverance. In essence, my duties as the teacher are to enable students to find their artistic voices through showing them the proper tools and methods. One of the best aspects of teaching is the limitless styles and combinations of learning. While certain techniques work for some students, others may not— each individual is unique in their own right and so the way they learn is, too. Through my experience teaching, I’ve come to learn that each student offers a myriad of talents and strong suits, regardless of their current level. Talent is a broadly reaching word and can apply to many aspects of the art of violin such as one’s receptiveness to new information, resilience in adversity, or their pure passion for what they love about music. In any case, I am committed to helping each student grow in a way that fosters a positive bond with themselves, the music, and the violin. Throughout the student’s musical journey, I truly hope that I can serve them as a helpful guide and mentor so they feel the confidence that they can tackle any piece of music.
Bio: Violinist, Leah Froyd hails from Denver, Colorado where she has earned recognition as a soloist, chamber musician and arts humanitarian. Ms. Froyd recently graduated from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music under the tutelage of renowned violinist, Ian Swensen. Trading coasts, Leah entered into the Master of Music Degree program at the Longy School of Music of Bard College as a Roman and Melanie Totenberg Scholar where she was the teaching assistant to Paula Majerfeld.
Having worked extensively with the Telegraph Quartet in San Francisco, Leah honed her chamber music skills by performing internationally at the Rencontres Musicales de Noyers and the Nice Summer Music Academy in France. Nationally, Ms. Froyd has participated at the Castleman Quartet Program, LyricaFest, and the Lamont Academy of Denver University music festivals. In Boston, Ms. Froyd served as assistant Principal 2nd of the Lyrica Citizen’s Artist Orchestra as well as the organization’s newly appointed managing director, specializing in collaborations with the Boston Healthcare for the Homeless and other local shelters. Now in San Francisco, she is the CoFounder of Insight Chamber Players and manages a private teaching studio.
Contact info:
Phone: (720) 272.2364
Email: Leah.froyd@sfcom.edu
Ericsson Hatfield
www.ericssonhatfield.com
Location: San Francisco (Hayes Valley)
Ages: 13 to 70
Style: Classical, theory, Ear Training, Improvisation, Composition
Ericsson Hatfield is an award winning violinist and composer based in the San Francisco area. His teaching style incorporates efficient technical approaches, ear training and theory. Ericsson has over a decade of teaching experience with all ages and abilities.
Contact info:
Phone: (561) 628-2284
Email: ericsson.hatfield@sfcm.edu
Erma Kyriakos
Instruments and levels: Violin (beginner/intermediate/advanced) and Piano (beginner/early intermediate)
Location: San Francisco area (will travel to Sunset, Castro, Inner Richmond, Mission) Also teaches at Chinese American International School.
About: I love to teach beginners and intermediate players on both piano and violin. Both young beginners or returning adults are welcome! I am classically trained and like to teach music theory along with technique. I enjoy teaching students how to read music instead of playing by ear and encourage all students to practice have a steady practice schedule at home. I am not Suzuki trained, but I have taught from the Suzuki books (violin) for 9 years. For piano, I like to start from the Faber series and Dozen A Day series.
miss.erma.k@gmail.com
Caitlin McSherry
mcsherryviolin.com
Locations: San Francisco at students' homes and from my home studio in Vallejo. Currently all lessons are taught online until conditions improve.
Ages: 5 and up
Styles: Classical violin and traditional fiddle
Contact: c.m.mcsherry@gmail.com or through my website
I have been teaching violin and fiddle across the country for over twenty years. My goal is to help students build a solid technical and musical foundation that allows them to play any style of music with ease and enjoyment. In addition to teaching, I perform around the Bay Area playing with many fine orchestral, opera and chamber music ensembles. Please check out my website to learn more!
Bobbi Nikles
www.bobbinikles.com
Ages: All levels, ages and styles. Highly sought after teacher with warm and eclectic approach.
Styles: Special interest in traditional fiddle music including jazz, Irish, American old-time and Irish.
Bio: Bobbi is the founder and long-time director of the much loved and respected "Fiddlekids". Fiddlekids is now a program of Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse. She currently instructs at Fiddlekids camp and teaches out of her San Francisco studio.
Contact by email Bobbinik@gmail.com
Victoria Perenyi
www.victoriaperenyi.com
Location: Oakland/San Francisco
Ages 8 and above, beginner-advanced
Styles: Classical, Suzuki, Jazz, Improv
About: Alongside coaching youth chamber ensembles and holding her private teaching studio, Victoria is a freelance violinist in the San Francisco Bay Are. Her lessons are uniquely tailored to each student- be they 8 or 80! Utilizing numerous methods to fit the individual students goals and dreams, Victoria aims to bring out the love of music in her pupils.
Agnieszka Peszko
www.avpeszko.com
Instrument: Violin
Location: San Francisco
Ages: 6 to adult
Style: Classical & Suzuki
About: She has been teaching violin to students of all ages and levels from beginners to conservatory level students for over a decade now. In her teachings, she combines Suzuki with traditional European methods. Agnieszka’s enthusiasm and dedication to pedagogy have led her students to successful performances, assessment distinctions and awards at national and international competitions.
Contact: violinstudiosf@gmail.com or (718) 551-5370
Barbara Schaefer
www.sfviolinlessons.com
Instrument: Violin
Location: San Francisco
Ages: 4 to adult
Level: Beginner to advanced
Style: Classical (Suzuki and Traditional)
About: I’m a certified Suzuki violin teacher and professional orchestral violinist. I teach the Suzuki Method and create a strong foundational technique with scales, etudes, and exercises. We also play fun fiddle tunes and supplemental pieces. In my studio, I want to inspire my students to find the joy in making music and play music they love. I aim to encourage creativity and curiosity: to ask questions and to seek answers with enthusiasm.
Education: Bachelor of Music degree from Indiana University Jacobs School of Music and a Master of Music degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
Contact: b_schaefer@icloud.com . Please check out my website, www.sfviolinlessons.com to learn more!
Dorisiya Yosifova
dorisiyayosifovaviolin.com
Style: Classical
Ages: 4-18 and adults, all levels
About: A native of Bulgaria, violinist Dorisiya Yosifova enjoys an active career in music as a teacher and performer. As an orchestra musician, Dorisiya plays as Principal Second Violinist of the Apollo Ensemble of Boston and has also played with the Cape Ann Symphony as Section Player and the Lowell House Opera as Concertmaster. In the recent years, she has appeared in performances as a solo and chamber musician in the Greater Boston Area where Dorisiya was located before her recent move to the Bay Area. Enthusiastic about teaching, Dorisiya is currently on the String Faculty at the Maud Powell String Institute and Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, and also maintains a private studio. Previously, she has also taught at the Boston School of Music Arts and the El- Sistema inspired Youth and Family Enrichment Services. Dorisiya is the Founder and Artistic Director of the Maud Powell String Institute - a string program specifically designed for immigrant children. Her pedagogy instructors include Mimi Zweig and Rictor Noren.
Contact by email: dorisiya.yosifova@maudpowellinstitute.org
South Bay
Jinny Lee
Instrument: Violin
Location: San Jose area
Ages: 4 to any age
My mission is to help students become better violin players by applying three principal concepts: playing physically at ease, visualizing sound, and playing musically. With over fifteen years of teaching experience, I am dedicated to creating a comfortable and engaging learning environment that fosters a passion for music. Our studio is equipped with all the necessary tools and resources to facilitate the learning process, including state-of-the-art equipment and well-designed practice space. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced student, my personalized approach to teaching can help you achieve your musical goals and reach your full potential as a violinist. I am currently a principal 2nd violin player in Stockton Symphony and also play in other Bay Area Orchestras such as Symphony San Jose, Berkeley Symphony, California Symphony, Sacramento Philharmonic, and Modesto Symphony.
Please visit my website, www.jinnyleeviolin.com, for more information on my studio and teaching, and to contact me.
Brooke Mickelson
I have a passion for nurturing young talents in the realm of string instruments, particularly violin and viola. In addition to running my independent studio, I am on faculty at CSMA. I had 33 violin students at CSMA this last year and only 3 viola! In my private studio, I am actively seeking viola students who particularly benefit from my specialized guidance and mentorship. I am also open to accepting violin students! I take students of all ages and levels (kids and adults).
I have recently added studio locations in Fremont and Cupertino!
Please visit my website, brookeviolist.com, for more information on my studio and teaching, and to contact me.
James Woodward
Instrument: Violin/Viola
Location: San Mateo/Peninsula
Ages: All ages and levels
Style: Classical/Baroque/Jazz
About: James Woodward is a musician and violin/viola instructor from the Bay Area. He is classically trained, as well as trained in jazz and early music. He received his bachelor’s in music at Pacific Union College with emphases in violin and viola performance. He feels that it is especially meaningful to interpret music based on historic and new techniques, therefore developing a greater appreciation of the composer’s ideas and emotions. He has performed in Prague, Germany, Ireland, and at Carnegie Hall.
As a Bay Area local, he has performed with the Stanford Summer Symphony, Stanford Symphony Orchestra, and the Stanford Philharmonia. He has been featured in the St. Helena Star for his historically informed performance of Vivaldi and solo Bach. He is passionate about exploring the sound world of the violin and viola in a traditional means, as well as exploring various other styles to express additional sounds and ideas. He strongly feels that music should be an accessible, progress-based, and a transformative experience for everyone. He believes in a creative and personalized approach, while emphasizing technique, allowing for every student to meet his or her full potential while developing a passion and appreciation for music.
Contact: Email Jazzcat1436@gmail.com.
Philharmonia Baroque (various teachers)
See website for individual teachers, philosophies and rates: https://philharmonia.org/
Remote Violin teachers organized by last name:
Toby Branz
Instrument: Violin
Location: San Francisco and remote
Ages: 3 to any age
Style: Suzuki method
I specialize in teaching beginning and intermediate violin students of all ages. I teach most of my violin students using the Suzuki method and repertoire.
I was born and raised in the Bay Area, and I still love living, working, playing, and singing here. I am passionate about music education and I strongly believe in lifelong learning. We're never too old (or too young!) to make music. I received my B.A. from Pomona College, my Master of Music in Vocal Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 2010, and my Postgraduate Diploma in Vocal Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music in 2011. I received my Suzuki Teacher Certification in Books 1, 2, 3, and 4 at the Hartt Suzuki Institute and the Advanced Suzuki Institute at Stanford. I'm always working to get fresh new ideas from colleagues & from my own musical practice and compositions to invigorate my teaching, playing and singing.
Please visit my website, www.musicwithtobysf.com, for more information on my studio and teaching, and to contact me.
Kasandra Klassy
www.kasandraklassy.com
Location: Remote lessons only
Styles: Suzuki, Books 1-10
Ages: 4+
About: I have been teaching for over 35 years, and spent time with Dr. Suzuki in Japan. My program includes private lessons, plus additional group lessons, and 4 concerts per year. The concerts each have a different theme: Solo, graduation, fiddle and Christmas. Please see my website to learn more.
Contact by email: Kassandra Klassy
Mads Tolling
The Ultimate Violin Course
The Ultimate Violin Course was created by Two-Time Grammy Award-Winning Violinist Mads Tolling. Mads is a former member of Turtle Island Quartet and Stanley Clarke’s band, and he is a current member of The Grateful Dead front man, Bob Weir’s new band.
With The Ultimate Violin Course you can stream 50+ exclusive video lessons with over 20 hours of content that covers two years of violin education. Mads will teach you step-by-step how to play the violin. When you start out learning a musical instrument, simple imitation is the best way to learn and improve concentration. The Suzuki system was founded on this idea. Mads has taken this concept a step further by going online and by using playalongs, a logical fingering system and multiple camera angles, it actually feels like you are right there in the room with him.
You will have access to playalongs, sheet music, practice plans, and the private Facebook Group to post videos and ask questions. Drawing from his diverse background Mads will go over a variety of songs that spans over jazz, pop, folk and classical. UVC is perfect for complete beginners and returning intermediate players. And best of all, you can learn with UVC from anywhere at anytime!
Please sign up for the FREE webinar at www.ultimateviolincourse.com
Like us on Facebook here: Ultimate Violin Course
More information about Mads: Mads Tolling
Viola teachers organized by location, then last name:
Alameda
Caitlin Keen/ Alameda Violin
www.alamedaviolin.com
Location: West End of Alameda
Ages: 2.5-college
Levels: Beginning to advanced violin and viola lessons
Styles: Classical, theory and chamber tutoring, performance injury and anxiety support
Description: Lesson emphasis is on a fun, well rounded, supportive, and high quality music education for those students who study solely for enrichment purposes, to those who seek to pursue professional careers. Though all students may not choose to become professional musicians, we believe that they all will lead more enriched lives because of their musical experience!
About: Committed to teaching all ages, Caitlin has taught for over 17 years privately as well as in group settings in Baltimore, Massachusetts, Colorado, and California, and has served as a faculty lecturer at UC Davis and Smith College and staff at Johns Hopkins University. She currently teaches as a substitute at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and performs throughout the Bay Area. She is a certified member of the American String Teachers Association and American Federation of Musicians.
Contact by email Catilin Keen
Albany
KC Still
www.kcstill.com
Location: Albany and Crowden School of Music
Ages: 4-adult
Styles: Traditional and Suzuki
Berkeley
Nils Bultmann
www.nilsbultmann.com
Location: Berkeley Area
Levels: Beginner to Advanced
Styles: Violin and Viola private lessons
Bio: Nils offers a creative approach to music making and string playing with an emphasis on technique, relaxation, and enjoyment. He is a composer and professional violist with a background in performance as well as a PHD from UC Berkeley in Music Composition. Nils has much experience teaching middle and high school students and also adults who wish to try string playing or who have played before and wish to get back into the instrument.
Contact by email: Nils Bultmann
Mary Dougherty
Location: near North Berkeley BART - indoor/backyard lessons available
Ages: 7 years old and up (adult beginners welcome!)
Levels: Beginning to advanced violin and viola lessons
About: Orchestra director at Berkeley High School
Violin staff instructor and conductor at BMUZ Berkeley Music camp and Cazadero perfoming arts camp
Contact by email Mary Dougherty
East Bay
Ondine Young
www.ondineyoung.com
Location: East and North Bay
Ages: all ages and levels
Styles: Classical and Baroque
About: Ondine is a violin/violist, musical director/conductor, and educator who works with many organizations in the San Francisco Bay Area. She earned a doctoral degree from the University of Southern California in choral conducting and early music performance.
Currently she works with Piedmont Pianos/East Bay Childrens’ Chorus, and Crowden School of Music; in addition to occasionally assisting with Old First Concerts San Francisco, Superpower of the Song, Notes Music Academy and more. Ondine also performs with many local ensembles such as Philharmonia Baroque, Albany Consort, Sacramento Baroque, Berkeley Community Chorus and Orchestra, Hollywood Chamber Orchestra, Vallejo Symphony, Jubilate, San Francisco Early Music Society, Cantare, WAVE, Junior Bach, Arlington Arts, Juxtapositions, Dirty Cello, Jazz Mafia, among others. Ondine has been invited to guest conduct Oakland Summer Reading Orchestra, Community Women’s Orchestra, Awesome Orchestra, Villa Sinfonia, Sacred and Profane, MidAmerica at Carnegie Hall; plus Ondine and family are guest performers at Christ Church Los Altos and many local churches.
Ondine co-founded “Tea, Talks, and Treasures” at The Pacific Boychoir Academy. She is on the board of directors of Dandelion Dance Theater and Winds Across the Bay. Her past roles include teaching and conducting for: Marin Girls Chorus, National Children’s Chorus, Golden State/California Youth Orchestras, Marin/Oakland Schools for the Arts, Sound Minds/California Symphony, Bentley School, Stern Grove, and the Carmel Bach Festival. She has also conducted San Francisco Boys' and Girls’ Choruses, Kairos Youth Choirs, and many bell/Church choirs (CC, UMC, Catholic, Episcopal, Lutheran).
Prior to living in the Bay Area, Ondine spearheaded the choral program at the University of San Diego. She studied violin, viola, choral, orchestral conducting, and performance practice at the University of California Santa Cruz and Santa Barbara. For more information on Ondine, visit her website www.ondineyoung.com
El Sobrante
Edith Szendrey
www.sfnapamusic.com
Edith Szendrey teaches all ages and levels of motivated students and music lovers in the Classical Style, with some Modern, Jazz, Alternative and Fiddle thrown in for fun. Edith encourages her students to be involved in many different musical experiences and in 2013 she founded the Hawaii Performing Arts Festival Junior Strings Program on the Big Island.
In 2017 she collaborated with Chee Yun Kim and other great musicians to form the SD Festival Junior Program at San Domenico School in San Anselmo, and often spends summers teaching chamber music at the Pacific Music Institute, summer music festival in Honolulu. Of Hungarian roots, she holds a Bachelors degree in Music from the University of British Columbia. Edith taught for 16 years at the East Bay Waldorf School, was the music director for 9 years at the Greenwood School in Mill Valley and is now teaching at the Golden Bridges School in San Francisco.
In addition to inspiring young musicians, she has performed in many chamber music concerts with the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra, the San Francisco Choral Society and the Arlekin String Quartet. She is an experienced and versatile musician, having worked with many great artists including Wayne Wallace, Barbra Streisand and Diana Krall. Orchestral experience includes the Marin Symphony, Berkeley Symphony, and the San Francisco Opera Orchestra.
Edith also enjoys exploring nature with her children, walking her dogs at dawn, swimming under the stars, and hiking with her camera.
Contact: phone: (510) 758-7870 email: Edith Szendrey
South Bay
Brooke Mickelson
I have a passion for nurturing young talents in the realm of string instruments, particularly viola, my main instrument. In addition to running my independent studio, I am on faculty at CSMA. I had 33 violin students at CSMA this last year and only 3 viola! In my private studio, I am actively seeking viola students who particularly benefit from my specialized guidance and mentorship. However, I am also open to accepting violin students! I take students of all ages and levels (kids and adults).
I have recently added studio locations in Fremont and Cupertino!
Please visit my website, brookeviolist.com, for more information on my studio and teaching, and to contact me.
James Woodward
Instrument: Violin/Viola
Location: San Mateo/Peninsula
Ages: All ages and levels
Style: Classical/Baroque/Jazz
About: James Woodward is a musician and violin/viola instructor from the Bay Area. He is classically trained, as well as trained in jazz and early music. He received his bachelor’s in music at Pacific Union College with emphases in violin and viola performance. He feels that it is especially meaningful to interpret music based on historic and new techniques, therefore developing a greater appreciation of the composer’s ideas and emotions. He has performed in Prague, Germany, Ireland, and at Carnegie Hall.
As a Bay Area local, he has performed with the Stanford Summer Symphony, Stanford Symphony Orchestra, and the Stanford Philharmonia. He has been featured in the St. Helena Star for his historically informed performance of Vivaldi and solo Bach. He is passionate about exploring the sound world of the violin and viola in a traditional means, as well as exploring various other styles to express additional sounds and ideas. He strongly feels that music should be an accessible, progress-based, and a transformative experience for everyone. He believes in a creative and personalized approach, while emphasizing technique, allowing for every student to meet his or her full potential while developing a passion and appreciation for music.
Contact: Email Jazzcat1436@gmail.com or phone: (650) 773-4626.
Cello teachers
organized by location then last name
Alameda
Marcie Brown/ Alameda Cello Academy
www.marciebrown.com/
Styles: Suzuki, improvisation, Classical, jazz, world music, fiddling
Ages: cello, piano and violin students of all ages
Email Marcie Brown
Berkeley
Shain Carrasco
www.shaincarrasco.com
Ages: All ages and levels, adults welcome
Location: North Berkeley home studio
Bio: I believe in tailoring cello lessons to each student’s individual musical interests. While classical music is my main focus, there are many kinds of music that I enjoy and work with students to develop – including Jazz, Rock, World music and improvisation.
Robert Hurley
Location: Berkeley
Levels: Primarily beginning and intermediate, all ages welcome
Styles: Classical Cello, Chamber Music, Theory, Composition
About: Robert is a Taiwanese-American cellist attending UC Berkeley, where he studies with Jonathan Koh. His teaching stresses that students learn not only what to practice, but how to practice. He keeps students motivated by introducing variety in teaching and practice, and by encouraging students to perform and play with others.
Contact by email: rfhurley@berkeley.edu
Carla Kaufman
Location: Location: Studio is in Berkeley.
House calls are an option in Albany, Kensington, El Cerrito Richmond and Oakland.
Levels: All ages are welcome.
Carla Kaufman is a versatile musician who plays cello and bass. She has many years of professional experience performing and teaching classical music and jazz. Her emphasis is teaching foundational skills that make it possible to develop into a good musician. In addition to teaching the standard classical repertoire, she can help you learn to play by ear and understand the theory to develop bass lines and swinging jazz solos.
Lessons are designed to meet your personal goals.
She has a BA in Music from the University of California at Berkeley.
Contact by email: cjkbass@yahoo.com
Or by phone: 415-652-8360
Isaac Pastor-Chermak
isaacpastorchermak.com/teaching
Location: North Berkeley hills
Ages: 6 and up
Styles: classical
About me: I teach a small-but-mighty studio of excellent cellists at my home in North Berkeley, ranging from young beginners, to professional-track high schoolers, to adults wanting a new project in retirement. Everyone is welcome. My approach is structured, systematic and consistent. And, every lesson ends with a few minutes of duet playing. My students regularly take prizes at regional competitions, and are admitted to the top music schools in the country (Indiana University, Oberlin, Cleveland Institute, SF Conservatory). Let's talk!
Joy Song
Location: Berkeley/Oakland; open to driving to student's home depending on location for additional fee
Ages: all ages
About me: I received my Bachelors and Master’s degrees in cello performance from The Juilliard School, and have been playing the cello professionally for over 20 years now. I’m passionate about music being a means of communication, a universal language, and a vehicle that we are all capable of using to enrich our lives.
I aim to make my students the best cellist and musician they can be with where they are, who they are, and what they aspire to. It’s important to me to identify their specific goals, so I can do my utmost to help them reach them. I love going on this meaningful journey with my students.
Contact me at joywsong@gmail.com or learn more at joysongcello.com
Oakland
Luna Alonso-Glasner
Location: In-studio, North Oakland. Some availability for house calls and online
Levels: Primarily beginning and intermediate, all ages welcome
Styles: Classical Cello, Chamber Music, Theory, Composition
About: I am a classically trained cellist with a background in World Music. I have taught youth for ten years and specialize in working with students in Elementary and Middle School, though I teach all ages. I work to center musical learning in enjoyment while building routine and motivation. I am skilled at working with different kinds of learners and incorporating different learning approaches. I love to taylor my lessons to the individual! Se habla español.
Contact by email: lunacarmenag@gmail.com
Nina Flyer
www.ninaflyer.com
Oakland/Montclair Village.
Ages: I teach from 8 years old to 80
Level: advanced students
Style: Classical
"Please visit my personal website to see my bio, style of teaching and links to examples of my playing"
Jessica Ivry
www.jessivry.com
510-593-3395
Location: Glenview neighborhood, lower hills, Oakland
Ages & Levels: All ages and levels welcome. I enjoy the spark both of an elementary school beginner to the intellectual approach with an adult learner.
Styles: Your interests guide the lessons from Bach to Brahms to Adele and Traditional fiddle tunes. I will help you arrive at your musical destination!
About: I studied cello with Bonnie Hampton at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and recently got a Master of Arts in Teaching from Longy School of Music of Bard College. Although I am classically trained I have played and explored many genres including Jazz, Americana, string improvisation and folk music from the Balkans and Sweden. I am also an arranger and composer and can help you develop this on your cello! I am a life-long music learner and attend music camps and workshops whenever I can (Balkan Camp, Lark in the Morning, Sierra Fiddle Camp, Fiddle Tunes). I played with Real Vocal String Quartet for 10 years where we developed a global music sound along with simultaneous singing. We arranged music from Pop songs to Brazilian Choro, wrote original material, and we rehearsed like a Classical quartet--with attention to detail in style, intonation, and precision in rhythm and groove.
Jane Lee
Location: Oakland (Caldecott Tunnel area) Open to travel to Berkeley or Orinda for an extra fee, depending on scheduling.
Ages: 4 - adult
Styles: Classical, Traditional method
Contact: janecello999@gmail.com
“The secret of joy in work is contained in one word – excellence. To know how to do something well is to enjoy it.” Pearl S. Buck
Learning the cello and making music is a process, especially in the beginning. I believe in a step-by-step approach for the beginner student to build a solid foundation so that the student can grow musically and play with freedom and ease and eventually explore other musical genres and styles.
I teach with a positive, encouraging method, in order to bring out the best in the student. Learning the cello is not inclusive, there are many lessons one can apply to their whole approach to life. I ask questions and encourage the student to be aware and assess themselves in a healthy, positive manner. It is crucial that we work as a 3-part team along this journey: Myself, the student and the parent. The parent is important because you will be their support system, cheerleader, and practice coach in the beginning stages. I have strategies and skills to make this an enjoyable and fruitful experience for all involved.
I take all levels and ages. I have started kids from age 3.5 to adults.
Beginners: To build a solid foundation of technique to play with ease and freedom. Making sure to access power from the right places and not force the sound from the cello.
Intermediate/Advanced: You will excel by applying strategies and skills so that you are not playing with tension and pain, but with more freedom and ease. This will open up your sound and have you play with more joy, confidence and fulfillment.
Using scales, exercises, pieces and duets, we will learn techniques and apply them to music. I monitor where the student is and take it from there. I have been teaching privately for over 20 years. It is my joy to watch students grow from beginners to advanced players and see them bloom into fantastic musicians.
Stephen Moran
www.stephenmoran.org
Instruments: Cello, Baroque Cello, & Viola da Gamba
Location: Oakland (currently teaching backyard lessons with social-distancing as well as online lessons)
About: As a teacher, I have worked with the whole gamut of students. I have served as the undergraduate cello instructor at Stony Brook University, worked with many young beginners, adult amateurs, as well as anyone in between. I enjoy the challenge of finding the best path for each student, carefully considering their strengths, weaknesses, and particular interests to design a curriculum that best serves their goals and predilections. I recently moved to Oakland, California, and am currently expanding my cello and gamba studio.
If you're in the Oakland area and interested in COVID-safe in-person outdoor lessons please get in touch or visit Music In Your Backyard (https://luciakobza.wixsite.com/mysite-1) to find out more.
Contact: stephenarom@gmail.com or (240) 342-4615
Elisa Saltet
Location: Temescal region of Oakland
Ages: Ages 4 to adult
Method: Suzuki-informed, developmental pedagogical approach for children
About: Combining my two loves of playing the cello and teaching, I draw on my 10+ years of experience as a cellist and educator to offer lessons that are structured and systematic, while also leaving room for us to find inspiration along the way. My students say that they find lessons joyful and focused, and I aim to tailor the pace to each student’s age and goals. I teach on the faculty of the Holy Names young musician program as well as in my private studio in Oakland.
Method: For young children we sing together to learn pieces by heart, play games that teach the fundamentals of posture and technique, and progress through the Suzuki books with the support of a caregiver in lessons and home practice. For students in elementary and middle school, lessons and expectations are generally more rigorous, while also being joyful and encouraging. For high school and adult students we will discuss your goals and go at a pace that feels right for you. For all ages and levels, my goal is that through listening and learning by heart, I can help you explore the character and beauty of each piece and give you the foundation of technique to find joy and satisfaction in making music.
Equity, Belonging and Diversity: I am committed to a practice of Equity, Belonging and Diversity as a teacher. This includes my own ongoing work and study around liberation education. I warmly welcome students of all races, ethnicities, citizenships, genders, sexual orientations, religions, abilities, and levels of education. I welcome conversations and thoughts about how I can be inclusive and supportive of each of my students.
Background Studies: Cello Performance with Darrett Adkins at the Oberlin Conservatory and Pedagogy at the Bay Area Center for Waldorf Teacher Training.
Career: 10+ years teaching elementary and middle school music, art, humanities and sciences in Bay Area Waldorf schools, while also teaching private cello lessons. In 2021 I expanded my cello studio to full time.
Download a pdf copy of my bio here.
Contact: Elisa Saltet
Joy Song
Location: Oakland/Berkeley; open to driving to student's home depending on location for additional fee
Ages: all ages
About me: I received my Bachelors and Master’s degrees in cello performance from The Juilliard School, and have been playing the cello professionally for over 20 years now. I’m passionate about music being a means of communication, a universal language, and a vehicle that we are all capable of using to enrich our lives.
I aim to make my students the best cellist and musician they can be with where they are, who they are, and what they aspire to. It’s important to me to identify their specific goals, so I can do my utmost to help them reach them. I love going on this meaningful journey with my students.
Contact me at joywsong@gmail.com or learn more at joysongcello.com
Scott Thompson
Location: Oakland
Ages & Levels: All ages, Beginning-College Prep
Styles: Traditional Teaching, Classical
I teach the cello in a way that makes learning as easy and possible. Students who study with me will gain the tools to make beautiful music freely and easily. All levels and ages of students are welcome.
After years of studying at the SF Conservatory of Music and with world-renowned cello teachers— including Jennifer Culp, Ron Leonard and Irene Sharp— I learned not only how to play my instrument, but also how to teach the gift of music.
As a professional educator, I have spent the last fifteen years teaching K-8 PE and coaching both youth and adult swimming in the East Bay. The skills I have honed guiding students in their athletic pursuits translate to learning the Cello in that both endeavors require integrity and also the development of specific movements with the body. As a teacher who has experience across disciplines, I have developed an instinctive teaching style and focus on how I can help each student specifically.
Please reach out to me at 248-229-4537 or scott@lifeandcello.com and we can discuss next steps! I invite you to visit my website; lifeandcello.com
Piedmont
Evan Kahn
evandkahn.com
Location: Based in Piedmont, and online, will travel to people's residences once COVID risk has significantly lessened.
Ages: Six and older
Style: I specialize in kinesthetic, body-awareness, and movement-based technique informed by deep listening and skilled concentration.
About: My goal for beginning students is to make sure they're set up to play the cello freely and comfortably from Day 1, while prioritizing a sense of fun and "play" throughout the process. My goal for driven, career-based students is to give them room to grow while pushing them to their limits. With adult students, I help them establish short- and long-term goals, and work with them to actualize those goals.
I am the principal cellist of Opera San Jose and Symphony Silicon Valley, Associate Principal of San Jose Chamber Orchestra and West Bay Opera, and a regular substitute cellist with Los Angeles Opera. I have a master's degree in chamber music from San Francisco Conservatory, and studied with Juilliard and Hochschule für Musik "Hanns Eisler" professors at Aspen and Taos Schools of Music.
Contact by email: pinemarten127@gmail.com
San Francisco
Laura Gaynon
www.lauragaynon.com
Location: Studio in San Francisco, Sunset District
Ages: 6 years and up
Style: I teach cello lessons and chamber music to students older than 6 who are ready to learn. If you are looking for a serious course of study that is also highly encouraging and never loses sight of the joy of making music, please contact me at lauragaynon@gmail.com, or visit my website to read more about my teaching.
Adrianna Khoo
Location: San Francisco and San Mateo
Ages: 5 to 18
Offering: In person cello lessons in San Francisco and San Mateo
Method: Suzuki Method classical cello.
About: Adrianna Khoo's teaching philosophy is that all children can learn in a nurturing environment that cultivates curiosity and creativity. Adrianna pioneered Suzuki Cello Programs at the Carey School in San Mateo, Sycamore Strings Academy of Livermore and the first Suzuki recognized school in China. She currently works with the Sunset Youth Orchestra in San Francisco as well as Hillsborough and Cupertino school orchestras.
Her private students have attended Galbraith Honors GSYO, PYO, CODA and All State Honors. They have played alongside the Hong Kong Philharmonic. Adrianna holds a B.A. in English from UC Berkeley, an M.A. in Journalism from USC, where she also studied music, and a GPD in Cello Performance from Longy School of Music.
Please contact me at redcellostudio@gmail.com, or visit my website at www.RED-CELLO.com.
Matthew Linaman
MJLCello.com
Location: San Francisco, Inner Sunset, house calls available
Ages: 6-21
My Goal? Happy kids who love music, for life
About: I help young cellists uncover the joy and depth of beauty available to us through music. My students are eager to learn and excited to try new things. Using expression, imagination and creativity as the cornerstones of the lessons, I integrate technique and the foundations of music into every lesson seamlessly. I support and encourage each student's unique learning style and personality with love and patience, guiding them to discover their own musical voice. You can contact me through my website to learn more about my teaching style and about me.
Natalie Raney
natalieraneycello.com
Location: Home studio in San Francisco (Twin Peaks)
Ages: 4+ beginner-advanced
Offering: Private cello lessons
About: Passionate about teaching, Natalie is currently a faculty member of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music Pre-College, where she coaches chamber music ensembles. She has coached chamber music to young musicians through the Lyceum Music Festival in Utah and Summer Music West in San Francisco. In addition to her work as a chamber coach, Natalie maintains a private studio in San Francisco, California. She has been teaching cello for over a decade, has experience teaching ages 4-adult, and loves teaching students of all levels.
Her students have had wonderful success including: Winning concerto competitions or principal positions in orchestra, performing in All-City Orchestra, performing alongside Kronos Quartet for the Conservatory in the Schools project, and reaching many personal goals in music.
Contact me at raney.natalie@gmail.com, or visit my website at natalieraneycello.com.
Naomi Stoodley
naomistoodley.com
Location: San Francisco
Ages: All ages and levels are welcome
Styles: Classical, Chamber Music, Contemporary Genres
My teaching philosophy revolves around patience, persistence, and positivity. Following a Suzuki-based approach, I tailor my curriculum to fit the individual. During lessons, you can expect to develop excellent technique, increase your theory and history knowledge, and expand your musical palette. Throughout the year, my students have the opportunity to participate in MTAC festivals, recitals, and performance evaluations (Certificate of Merit™), as well as studio events.
Under the tutelage of Jennifer Kloetzel, I earned my master’s degree in cello performance from the University of California, Santa Barbara.
If you are interested in signing up for a free trial lesson, please contact me at naomistoodley@gmail.com.
South Bay
Adrianna Khoo
Location: San Francisco and San Mateo
Ages: 5 to 18
Offering: In person cello lessons in San Francisco and San Mateo
Method: Suzuki Method classical cello.
About: Adrianna Khoo's teaching philosophy is that all children can learn in a nurturing environment that cultivates curiosity and creativity. Adrianna pioneered Suzuki Cello Programs at the Carey School in San Mateo, Sycamore Strings Academy of Livermore and the first Suzuki recognized school in China. She currently works with the Sunset Youth Orchestra in San Francisco as well as Hillsborough and Cupertino school orchestras.
Her private students have attended Galbraith Honors GSYO, PYO, CODA and All State Honors. They have played alongside the Hong Kong Philharmonic. Adrianna holds a B.A. in English from UC Berkeley, an M.A. in Journalism from USC, where she also studied music, and a GPD in Cello Performance from Longy School of Music.
Please contact me at redcellostudio@gmail.com, or visit my website at www.RED-CELLO.com.
Doug Machiz
Location: Mountain View
Ages: 4-18, beginning-college prep
Styles: classical, contemporary, rock, pop, improvisation
My teaching focuses on guiding, imitation, singing, movement, and understanding. I find great joy in helping students to command the instrument with confidence and ease. In learning the language of music and the art of cello playing, the student will develop personal accountability and problem solving skills.
I perform with Friction Quartet and am on faculty at The Crowden School. I have studied cello at Boston University, UT Austin and San Francisco Conservatory of Music.
Please visit my website, www.dougmachiz.com for more information.
Onew Park
https://www.onewparkcello.com/
Location: Redwood City-Studio/ Cupertino Area
Ages & Levels: All ages, Beginning-College Prep
Styles: Suzuki Training, Baroque/ Modern/ Classical, Chamber music
About: My philosophy in teaching music begins with the love of music. For students of all ages, those who enjoy their music are also the most successful and enduring. I want to share my passion and knowledge of music through a customizable approach. I'm a patient, adaptable, and professional Cellist, ready to help you continue or embark on your musical journey. Get in touch today so we can start working together!
Contact by phone (412)889-8326 or email; onpark229@gmail.com
Devon Thrumston
www.devonaugustacello.com
Location: Pacifica/East Bay, San Francisco, and Peninsula
Ages & Levels: 7 years and up, adult students are welcome!
About: My studio is in Pacifica, and I visit student homes in both the East Bay, San Francisco, and along the Peninsula.
I provide a diverse musical environment for my students, grounded in theory and technique, that incorporates the huge variety of musical pieces for the cello. Focused on creating a fun and supportive environment, I try to connect with students through finding their unique joy in music, and building their self-esteem as budding musicians.
For more information, please reach out to me at info@devonaugustacello.com
Bass teachers
organized by location then last name
Berkeley
Carla Kaufman
Location: Location: Studio is in Berkeley.
House calls are an option in Albany, Kensington, El Cerrito Richmond and Oakland.
Levels: All ages are welcome.
Carla Kaufman is a versatile musician who plays cello and bass. She has many years of professional experience performing and teaching classical music and jazz. Her emphasis is teaching foundational skills that make it possible to develop into a good musician. In addition to teaching the standard classical repertoire, she can help you learn to play by ear and understand the theory to develop bass lines and swinging jazz solos.
Lessons are designed to meet your personal goals.
She has a BA in Music from the University of California at Berkeley.
Contact by email: cjkbass@yahoo.com
Or by phone: 415-652-8360
If you are a string teacher and would like to be included in this list, please email Felicity with your website, teaching location and what ages/ styles you teach.
This is a FREE community referral service provided by Ifshin Violins. We do not endorse any particular listing or teacher. Our goal is to help our customers find great teachers and our local teachers find new students.