I perform on modern and baroque cello with top ensembles in New York City and around the world. When I’m not self-isolating, I perform regularly with the Tesla Quartet (www.teslaquartet.com). I’ve been teaching since conservatory days in St. Petersburg, Russia. While a master’s student at Juilliard, I also trained to teach the Suzuki method, which bears fascinating similarities with the Russian school. But enough about me. I want to meet you and start a conversation about your goals.

THE METHOD
In the meantime, let me tell you a little bit about how I work with my current students, how we might work together. More than anything, I want your practice to balance technique and expression. My students and I spend 20-30 percent of each lesson on scales and exercises - that allows you to get comfortable with the instrument and having an audience(!), as well as develop agility and confidence.

The remainder of the lesson, we make music with varied repertoire that reflects your goals and interests and offers intriguing new opportunities for discovery. I encourage my students to attend concerts (hopefully possible again soon) and listen to recordings—and I’m happy to make personalized recommendations!

THE PLACES YOU’LL GO
My students belong to informal groups, as well as school and community orchestras. Some of them, seeking professional careers, also play solo recitals and chamber music, and take part in competitions. Others just love to play for its own sake. Most important to me, they all enjoy playing the cello more and more.