Marion Van Namen

Your lessons will consist of warmups with scales and an improvisation in that scale, techincal studies and of course classical repertoire. I have studied cello since 1996 after 15 years of piano lessons. In addition to playing cello I sing, drum, conduct choirs and make musical instruments. Yes, I've made my cello too.

I love improvisation; it brings that sparkle in your eye and the look that says "where the heck did THAT come from?"  I find it as important as playing from sheet music, but the emphasis in the lessons is building repertoire from sheet music.  I use the Suzuki books to start with and branch out to many resources after book 2. I love working with students between 8 and 108 years old. I'm great with children since I've taught elementary school also. And I admire adults that take on cello (I started cello when I was 31). My students often say they feel inspired from their lessons with me. Once a year you have an opportunity to play at a student recital.

I have studied with Hamilton Cheifetz since 2007. My studio is located in the Woodstock area in SE Portland. I teach from Monday through Saturday - 30, 45 or 60 minute lessons - whatever suits you best.