Cello Lessons in Austin, TX
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Our Approach to Cello Lessons at Northwest School of Music
Each aspiring cellist is a unique individual – while it is true that everyone must begin in the same place, where you go from there is completely up to you! The flexible style of our instructors will foster your musical creativity and guide your technique to levels of excellence. We incorporate certain features across the board for all our students, especially in the beginning to create a strong foundation. Once the groundwork is finished, we love watching our students flourish, overcoming challenges and pursuing the music that speaks to them!

Our Approach to Cello Lessons
Get StartedWe Make Cello Lessons Fun!
Don’t let size intimidate you! The cello, known for its rich tone, is one of the largest yet most gratifying instruments to learn. Our cello program at Northwest School of Music is founded on the basis of fun. We want all of our students to LOVE their cello lessons!
Our experienced instructors blend excellence in musical pedagogy with our focus on fun, helping you progress toward your goals. Whether you’re a beginning cellist or a seasoned professional, we want each lesson to bring you a smile and leave you eager to return for more.
We Emphasize Healthy Technique
Regardless of your level of proficiency, our skilled instructors will work with you to develop healthy technique. We’re as excited to teach strong fundamentals to beginners as we are to help experienced cellists further their relationship with the instrument. All students at Northwest School of Music will master the basics, including holding the cello and bow, generating beautiful tone, shifting, vibrato, and strong intonation.
Northwest School of Music focus on fundamentals is complemented by our emphasis on music literacy, including music theory, sight reading, and ear training. Students will be able to effortlessly translate this well-rounded education into musical maturity, moving quickly toward their goals while learning how to bring nuance and style to their personal performance.
We Care About Your Musical Interests
Take ownership of your own musical style and grow your talents at Northwest School of Music! Our dedicated instructors are committed to hearing your goals and helping you reach them. We pride ourselves on equipping each student with the tools they need to reach their fullest musical potential.
Creativity, self-discovery, and passion come to life at Northwest School of Music. Whether your goal is to pursue the cello professionally in an orchestra or as a soloist, or just to play for your own personal enjoyment, your cello teacher will support you throughout your musical journey.
Our Cello Teachers:
Kelly Smith Toney
Cello, Piano, Violin & Viola
Kelly Smith Toney received her bachelor and master degrees from The Juilliard School. Upon graduation, she joined the Singapore Symphony Orchestra for a two-year engagement. Mrs. Toney has been concertmaster and orchestra
Julie Adams
Cello, Piano, Voice, Violin & Viola
Julie began formal music study at age 6, piano lessons at age 7, cello and violin at age 11, and voice at age 16. Julie performed regularly in orchestra and choir throughout
Russell Robinson
Cello, Violin, Viola, Guitar, & Mandolin
Russell Robinson graduated from the University of North Texas with a bachelor’s degree in music education in 2014 and has been teaching private lessons ever since.
Sage Glasscock
Violin, Viola, Cello, Guitar, Ukulele, Bass
Sage Glasscock is a multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and recording artist. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree from Berklee College of Music, she moved to Austin to teach, perform, and continue to work on her own music.
We Offer Simple Pricing to Fit Your Schedule & Budget
Weekly Lessons
30 min
$180
per month
30 minute lessons are great for building a strong foundation.
GET STARTEDWeekly Lessons
45 min
$250
per month
Fit for both beginners & intermediate students who need more than 30 minutes.
GET STARTEDWeekly Lessons
60 min
$300
per month
Longer lessons, perfect for motivated, intermediate or advanced musicians.
GET STARTED
What you can expect
Tell us about your musical goals.
Match with one of our expert instructors.
Play music! Parents get progress reports.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get StartedWhat Age Should My Child Start Cello Lessons?
The recommended age to start cello is 7 years old. Due to the nature of the instrument, there is not a way to make the cello smaller past a certain size. We recommend 7 as a good age to start mostly because that’s when students are big enough to play comfortably. That said, every child is different – we are always willing to do a trial lesson and see if your child is ready to start!
What Makes Cello Lessons at Northwest Special?
Our instructors have a fun, collaborative style that will inspire you throughout the learning and decision-making process. The ideal teacher/student relationship is one where the student can realize their musical goals. Northwest teachers are fully equipped to assist you in every aspect of your musical development.
Do I Have to Know How to Read Music to Start?
No. All skill levels are welcome! We teach music literacy as a part of our private lessons – by learning to play the cello, you will learn how to read music over time.
What Will I Learn in My Cello Lessons?
Our cello teachers understand that every student is an individual, with personal musical needs and goals. We make it a priority to tailor lessons to the individual.
When you enroll, the first thing your teacher will do is ask about your favorite type of music. Together, you will set goals to help accomplish musical aspirations. We love beginners, so even if you don’t know where to begin, we can help!
Do I Need a Cello to Start Lessons?
No! If you do not have a cello yet, that’s totally okay! We can provide an instrument for the trial lesson so you can see if cello is the right fit for you!
If you decide to enroll in weekly lessons, you will need to acquire an instrument. We have local and online retailers we recommend who can fix you up with a rental so you can start playing right away!
So What Are You Waiting For?
If you’re ready to jump into the world of the cello, we are excited to match you with a teacher that can get you started on your musical journey. Nothing will enable you to progress more effectively than a one-on-one partnership with an inspiring cello professional.
If you’re ready to jump into the world of the cello, we are excited to match you with a teacher that can get you started on your musical journey. Nothing will enable you to progress more effectively than a one-on-one partnership with an inspiring cello professional.
Let us help you explore and build your abilities in a setting that is comfortable for you. You never know how far you can go until you take that first step, so get started today!

