Hi, I’m Kelsey!
I’ve been playing the cello since I was 6 years old, and have been teaching lessons and performing on the cello since 2015. I hold a Bachelors of Arts in Music, with an emphasis on psychology.
I believe that music should be accessible to all, and I build all of my musical endeavors from a foundation of education, relationship, and artistry.
As a teacher, I find that the student-teacher relationship is the most important element of learning. I take time to get to know my students and their interests, which allows me to select repertoire that will both excite them and help them grow musically. I place a big emphasis on proper technique, ear training, creativity, and confidence in my lessons. I also strive to introduce students to a wide range of musical genres and styles.
As a performer, I love to play pieces that will make people connect with their emotions— whether it’s a trio of Christmas songs that makes someone nostalgic for their youth, a Beatles cover that makes someone smile, a pop song that gets people singing along, or a well-known classical piece— I love to find the entry points for audience members to feel the music in themselves. I regularly perform in the community. Recent performances have included weddings, holiday parties, museum events, library programming, a mental health fair, background music for an indie-rock band, and more!
In addition to teaching and performing, I am the Program Manager and Beginning Strings Conductor for the Chicago Metamorphosis Orchestra Project, a nonprofit organization that uses the principles of El Sistema to provide free orchestra instruction to underserved communities on the west side of Chicago.
I live in Chicago and in my free time I love to cook, read, write, walk, travel, and spend time with loved ones.