Kate Cassella, violin/viola B.M., Manhattan School of Music Undergraduate studies at Peabody Conservatory and Johns Hopkins University “I believe first and foremost that lessons have to be an enjoyable experience." Kate began studying the violin at a young age in Portland, Oregon, where she was born and raised. “My mother is a violinist and teacher. I was desperate to start the violin when I was 3. After squeaking on my 1/16th size violin for a year my mother finally acquiesced and we began lessons using the Suzuki method.” An energetic and patient teacher, Kate creates an environment for her students that is challenging but also fun. “I believe first and foremost that lessons have to be an enjoyable experience. Often students do need to be pushed but it’s important to show them what they are capable of without making lessons or practicing a stressful experience.” Kate structures her lessons to each student’s personality, working at each student’s pace trying to match repertoire that inspires his or her interest. Open to working with children as young as 4, Kate incorporates the Suzuki method into her teaching for her youngest students. “I find that with the use of games, songs, and movement, lessons at a young age can be productive and fun.” Kate is also comfortable working with adults, both beginners and those returning to the instrument after a break. “I always find lessons with adults to be a collaborative experience and enjoy discussing music and violin playing with my older students.” In addition to violin, Kate also teaches beginning and intermediate level violists. Kate includes Bach, Debussy, and Ravel among her favorite classical composers. “I love any solo Bach, especially the violin and cello music. I am fascinated by Impressionist music for its more subtle harmonic relationships and mood evoking sound. I also enjoy bluegrass and fiddle music and my favorite musicians include Gil Shaham, Mark O’Conner, Edgar Meyer, Regina Carter, Fiona Apple, and Joni Mitchell.” In addition to her teacher Burton Kaplan, Kate counts her parents as two of her greatest influences. “They are a huge inspiration to me. I also feel constantly challenged and inspired by my musical colleagues and friends.” When she is not teaching or performing, Kate enjoys running, reading, watching Woody Allen movies, eating chocolate muffins, and spending time with her cat, Matzah Ball.