Meet Teacher Kate - Academy founder & teacher of violin/fiddle

Hello! I am the founder of Mosaic String Academy.

I believe that everyone and anyone can learn to play an instrument. This is also the fundamental principle of the Suzuki Method. I endeavor to make learning all styles of music fun, easy and accessible. It is also my job to teach beautiful tone, technique and good practice habits. In the end, I wish to teach artistry.

I am a classically trained violinist with 15 years teaching experience. I teach from the classical perspective, utilizing many aspects of the Suzuki Method as well as my training in the Western Classical school. I believe the classical technique is the best vehicle towards playing beautiful music of any genre on the violin/viola or cello or bass. I also play and teach Old-Time, Bluegrass, Country Western fiddle and improvisation techniques. (On that note, check out Portland Fiddle Camps - a summer day camp for kids I founded in 2009.)

I am always curious to explore all kinds of music!

I am so thrilled to present Mosaic String Academy. I created this program in order to provide what I believe are the essential elements that will engage people of all ages, maintain the beautiful tradition of these instruments and prepare students for whatever future they desire with music.

There is a modern movement with professional and amateur players to explore and reinvent how strings are involved in art and music. At Mosaic, students receive private instruction in classical technique and repertoire while also playing in monthly group classes where we explore fiddle, blues, pop, improvisation, jazz, eastern European and songwriting. It is crucial that the players of today experience ALL the music, from ALL the composers of ALL colors and countries. Then students see first hand the different environments where strings belong and find in their own hearts where their music fits into the greater picture.

At Mosaic, our teachers strive to help students tap into the timeless and worldly nature of these instruments. We strive to help each student find their own voice with their instrument and experience what it’s like to share this with other players of their age group. We walk our talk! It is my passion to provide a fun and nurturing environment where this unveiling may occur.

I come to this place honestly. I toured the US and Europe for about 10 years playing violin and singing in various bands. In Portland I played in the 1st violin section with the Tillicum Chamber Orchestra. I am the fiddler in Gerle Haggard as well as various Western Swing bands. I have a rock band where I write and sing originals & cool covers with Ritchie Young of Loch Lomond and good friend Glen Scheidt of The Lonesome Billies on drums. Most importantly, I’m a happy Momma to a 12 year old boy and our sweet ol’ pooch, Olivia.

Contact me: kate@mosaicstringacademy.com