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Private Teaching, Coaching and Master Classes - ONLINE LESSONS!

  • Modern Cello ages 3-103! ALL levels

  • Baroque Cello

  • Baroque cello techniques for the modern cellist

Teaching Philosophy

My goal as a teacher is to connect with my students and their families and work with students on an individual basis. I tailor my teaching to meet each student’s unique needs. Music education promotes critical thinking and problem-solving while developing effective practice skills and confidence. I teach a balanced and efficient approach to cello posture and technique. I love to share my enthusiasm for music and help my students discover their own love of music and the cello.

Testimonials

“Colleen is an excellent and dedicated teacher. Whether teaching cello or coaching chamber music, Colleen meets every student where they are at, no matter the age or level of experience. She is able to comfortably work with young students on fundamentals as well as work with very advanced students on concepts such as Baroque or Classical performance practice.” - Meghan Jacoby, director of Chamber Music at Concord Academy and Artistic Director of Music on The Hill

"Our daughter has been studying cello with Colleen for more than 6 years. Our daughter is a very active child and has a hard time staying put. We had to change to another cello teacher a few years back when Colleen moved to another state for one year. The other teacher was not able to keep our daughter's attention during class. We were so relieved when Colleen moved back to Massachusetts and we immediately came back to her. She is such a talented teacher and knows how to keep the kids focused. Colleen works tirelessly and keeps our daughter interested in cello for all these years. Now cello has become an important part of her life (and our lives, too)! Thank you so much, Colleen!"

“Colleen McGary Smith is a consummate cello teacher. Thoughtful, thorough and encouraging, she covers fundamental techniques and musicality in equal measure. She has substituted for my students at Boston University, and I have substituted for her students at the Powers Music School. She tailors her teaching to fit her students’ learning styles, and I was really impressed with how well her students progress. Any cellist looking to improve would be lucky to have her as a teacher. “ Sarah Freiberg Ellison, instructor at Boston University and The Powers Music School