Cello Lessons in Independence. Amazing Teachers.

I am a classically trained cellist and have been teaching for the past 8 years. I have a Master’s degree and a Post Graduate Degree in Music Performance, with emphasis in cello. I have played with top orchestras like the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, Boston Pops, and have played with musicians such as Yo-Yo Ma. When teaching, I strive to find the right balance between technique (which is key to improving), and other aspects of music such as musicality, historical context and performance practice. I have taught people of all ages and levels, and love sharing my passion for cello with each one of my students!

Cello:
A bowed or plucked string instrument with four strings tuned in perfect fifths. The strings from low to high are generally tuned to C2, G2, D3 and A3, an octave lower than the viola. It is a member of the violin family of musical instruments, which also includes the violin and viola and the double bass. The cello is used as a solo musical instrument, as well as in chamber music ensembles (e.g., string quartet), string orchestras, as a member of the string section of symphony orchestras, and some types of rock bands. It is the second-largest and second lowest (in pitch) bowed string instrument in the modern symphony orchestra, the double bass being the largest and having the lowest (deepest) pitch. My lessons always start out with the basics! We start out by learning notes by plucking the strings and then the bow is soon incorporated. The goal is to eventually learn all the notes on the fretboard and also learning how to read and play chords. As the student progresses ...

If you are looking for a modern cello education look no further. Daniel has an expansive extended skillset to offer his students and can support everything from a traditional classical training to a student interested in playing the blues.

I hope to share my passion for cello and music with you! I teach every age range and skill range. I’ve been playing for 15 years, teaching the past 5. I adapt my teaching style to my student, whether you are looking for guidance before an audition or wanting to play that song you’ve heard on the radio! I’m here to help get you to your goal!

I can help the student practice and learn their way around the cello in an efficient manner. This means that I will be helping with intonation and other technique by giving exercises for the challenging passages. Lessons will be customized according to the goal of the student. Sharing my knowledge in cello and music is a passion and a goal of mine and I would love to help reach your goals.

I have over 30 years of experience teaching cello. Every student has different needs; I work with you at whatever point you are at; beginners through advanced students welcome. I have a doctorate in cello. I've played cello all my life; in recent years I have learned (and can teach) 5-string cello, as well.

I recommend lessons 30 minutes in duration for beginners, particularly children. (Adult beginners can choose 30 or 45 minutes.) Students who can play longer pieces definitely need a little longer lesson so we get through everything.

I use Suzuki books for their inexpensive repertoire but I do not teach using the Suzuki method nor do I teach rote playing. I supplement these books with technique materials from Rick Mooney (Position Pieces, Thumb Position) and studies by cellist-composers of the past. If you have an interest in another area of playing, let's talk and find pieces that interest you.