“Through cello lessons, Katarina has guided our daughter to find her voice, build her confidence and develop life skills that extend far beyond the practice room.”

Parent of 5th grade student

Teaching Philosophy

Music education nurtures empathy, strengthens critical thinking, and allows students to develop skills for all areas of life. As a teacher, I take care to encourage growth for students not only as musicians, but as well-rounded individuals. I strongly believe that if more world leaders played an instrument or participated in chamber music, the world would be a kinder place.

In my studio, I encourage curiosity led learning, prioritizing listening to each student’s needs and learning styles. In lessons and practice, I emphasize a positive mindset paired with resilience, teaching self-belief.

Most importantly, music is fun!!

A young girl and a woman playing a cello together at a music event. The girl is wearing a red and white jacket and black pants, while the woman is smiling and has long red hair and glasses. Behind them, there is a colorful wall with a blue and yellow design, and a large screen displaying Chinese characters and illustrations for a reading event.
A young woman with red hair, glasses, and a striped blue shirt smiling while holding a cello and a bow, standing against a white wall and a windowed wall with an outdoor light.

Background

Today, I teach at the University of Michigan (go blue!!) as a Graduate Student Instructor working with cello minors and performance electives. Since 2020, I’ve maintained a private studio filled with young children, high school students, and adults.

Previously, I taught chamber music in the Pre-College Program at the Tianjin Juilliard School and have coached for the Cleveland Orchestra Youth Orchestra. I frequently give music lessons and demonstrations at children’s museums, school classes and summer camps.

Teaching Inquiries