Olivia Katz

Instrument: Cello

Experience: 22 years of playing, teaching, recording, composing, improvising, and performing for 10 years.

Studied: Bachelor in Music (cello performance) from the University of Puget Sound, and Master in Contemporary Classical Music Performance (cello) from Boston Conservatory at Berklee.

Specializes in: Classical, Contemporary Classical, Free Improvisation

Approach: My teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that music education is a journey of discovery and growth. My goal is to create a supportive, fun, and welcoming environment where students can develop their skills, appreciation, and love of music.

It is my belief that the foundation of effective cello technique lies in a deep awareness of the body; I prioritize teaching students to play without pain and emphasizing that any discomfort should be brought to my attention so we can find a solution together. This may include breathing exercises, working through performance anxiety, releasing muscle tension, and creating healthy practice habits.

Encouraging curiosity and creativity is a central tenet of my teaching–I invite students to ask questions, explore various musical styles, and engage in improvisation. Practicing a positive attitude towards mistakes and challenges is crucial for growth, and I encourage students to embrace their errors as opportunities for learning and improvement. Music should be an enjoyable and fulfilling experience, and I strive to help students find what motivates them and sparks their interests; I firmly believe that enjoying the learning process is key to long-term success. By creating a nurturing and stimulating environment, I aim to help students enhance their musicality and artistic integrity while cultivating a lifelong passion for music.