Arash Amini, cello M.M., The Juilliard School B.M., The Curtis Institute of Music "I think being extremely encouraging towards the student is the key to success and a happy relationship between the teacher and student." External links: www.adcany.org Past concerts with interview Something Old, Something New Arash (Joey) Amini began studying the cello when he was only 4 as part of a program at his Montessori school in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Everyone else wanted to play violin, so his mom volunteered him to play cello. He made quick progress and was soon taking a 60 minute private lesson every day. Throughout his childhood, which included stops in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Fairfax, Virginia, Gaborone, Botswana and Rockville, Maryland, Joey continued to study cello, eventually going to the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia to pursue his Bachelor of Music. He believes that everyone can learn to develop the talent to play an instrument. “There is no such thing as a “God-given” gift of music. It all depends on the quality of the teacher, the devotion of the parents, and most of all a fostering environment for the person to learn. I think being extremely encouraging towards the student is the key to success and a happy relationship between the teacher and student.” Joey is open to teaching kids as young as 3 1/2 or 4, at first having the student learn by ear, and moving on to reading music later when the child is older. He teaches students of all ages, including adults, trying to keep them encouraged and interested. An avid performer, Joey has played in venues throughout the United States, including Weill Recital Hall, Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Paul Griffiths of the New York Times has written of Joey’s cello playing “he played with… total conviction, his phrasing and nuances subtle but carved with determination, a thoroughgoing musical achievement.” Joey’s most recent musical project is a chamber music society that he has co-founded, America’s Dream Chamber Artists (ADCA). You can learn more about this exciting project at www.adcany.org. When he is not busy teaching and performing, Joey enjoys spending time cooking and playing with his dog “who has a wonderful personality. His energy and devotion is admirable.”