Teaching

Cello Beginner Group Class

with Dr. Nicole Boguslaw Schmitz · Ages 6–8

About the Class

This class is designed as a group class for new young musicians with little to no cello experience, ages 6–8.

The one-hour class will be scheduled in sessions and will come with one private half-hour lesson for each student, to be scheduled separately. It is recommended that students complete both sessions.

Classes will be recorded and shared privately within the group to be used as a practice resource. The recordings will be of the instructor and will not include students and their likeness.

The goal is to prepare for school orchestra and/or private lessons, building a strong foundation for technique and musical knowledge while having fun!

Students playing cello together in a group class

Session I

$250

6 one-hour classes and one private 30-minute lesson

Session I will include the instrument fundamentals: all about the cello, posture, hand position, and bow hold. We will also go over the basics of ear training, note reading, rhythm, and playing in a small ensemble. By the end of the session, students will be able to read and play through a short piece together.

No experience required.

Class dates

  • October 24
  • November 7
  • November 14
  • November 21
  • December 5
  • December 12Class and performance

Session II

$290

6 one-hour classes and one private 30-minute lesson

We will focus on using the bow with the correct hold, sound production, and distribution. Students will begin learning key signatures, sight reading, and memorization. We will learn music through note reading and playing by ear.

Students must have completed Session I or have previous experience with the cello or another instrument.

Class dates

  • January 30
  • February 6
  • February 13
  • February 20
  • February 27
  • March 6Class and performance
Nicole teaching a student in a private cello lesson

Equipment

Each student will need their own:

  • Cello
  • Bow
  • Rock stop
  • Folding music stand
  • Music folder
  • Music stool (for students of certain heights)

Questions about cello rentals and equipment can be sent through the contact page.