Cello with Tugce B.

I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Music Performance in Cello from Bilkent University School of Music in Ankara, Turkey on a full-scholarship, as a full-time music student for 11 years with honors. In 2012 I graduated from Valdosta State University with my Master’s Degree in Performance with 4.0 GPA, where I was the recipient of an out of state scholarship and teaching assistantship. While pursuing my Master’s Degree at VSU, I had the opportunity to teach in award-winning South Georgia String Project (SGSP), an after-school music program where public school-age children, from grades 1-12, have access to low-cost stringed instrument lessons. In SGSP I was fortunate enough to instruct a diverse group of children where I conducted orchestras, assisted with the Valdosta Youth Orchestra, taught group and private lessons, and applied Differentiated Learning teaching techniques. My experience as an intercultural and international musician, and as a teacher enables me to collaborate with people from varying backgrounds. I strive to tailor each student's experience. Facilitating progression and learning at the individual level. Throughout my teaching career, my focus has been centered around cultivating the students’ interest by awakening a sense of music appreciation while teaching them the technical skills of playing an instrument. Apart from teaching, I have been a performer for 12 years with various orchestras. And now you can see me play with the Hawaii Symphony Orchestra in Oahu, where I live and teach. I am looking forward to bringing the joy of music into your life!