Katie Scheele, oboe and english horn M.M., Boston University B.M., Northwestern University "I appreciate that the oboe is a difficult instrument so I try to maintain a fun and supportive environment in lessons." Rhode Island native Katie Scheele began studying the oboe in sixth grade because "no one else had really signed up for it and I liked that it was an unusual instrument!" After completing her graduate studies at Boston University, Katie move to New York to "pursue a freelance career in the most exciting city in the world." "I appreciate that the oboe is a difficult instrument so I try to maintain a fun and supportive environment in lessons," says Katie of her approach to teaching. Requiring a great deal of air, muscle, and sensitivity to the delicate reed, the oboe is usually studied by children over ten and adults. Katie enjoys teaching students of all ages. She understands that "practicing can be a daunting task to a young player" and works with students to develop effective and efficient practicing habits. Katie also "respects the styles of music that my students like to play and I try to incorporate their choice of repertoire into lessons." With older students Katie is "interested in learning about their goals as an oboist. I especially like working on reeds with adult students." Katie encourages her students to be well-rounded and includes discussions about theory and music history in lessons when appropriate. "I also feel it is very important for students to take advantage of the musical offerings in New York City by attending concerts whenever possible. Most importantly, I hope to promote a love of music in my students so that it will always be a part of their lives in some capacity." "My iPod is chock-full of music from Bach to rock!" says Katie of musical tastes. She enjoys classic rock, jazz, indie rock, electronic pop, and includes Bach, Brahms, Shostakovich, Rodrigo, and Glass as some of her favorite classical composers. As a performer Katie most enjoys playing in an orchestra because "I love being part of a large team that creates such a beautiful sound." When she's not "whittling away at her reed desk" Katie enjoys traveling with her husband, photography, thrift-shopping, and a "good game of Scrabble."