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About Susan
“When I was in sixth grade, the beginning orchestra from our local jr high visited and played a concert for our class. I am sure that many of the students played out of tune with questionable rhythm and scratchy bows, but I was mesmerized.
In 7th grade, I begged my parents to let me join the beginning orchestra and they finally acquiesced. I showed up for our first rehearsal, violin in hand, and had no idea that this would be a life changing event. At the young age of 11, I knew what I wanted to do with my life.”
My journey began in a house of five siblings who "mostly" tolerated the hours of practice that led me to the Youth Orchestra and eventually a full scholarship to the University of Miami. While my path briefly detoured through an MBA at Loyola Chicago, I soon realized that analyzing corporate risk couldn't compete with the joy of motherhood and music.
Having raised my own children through the Suzuki method (who are now "musically literate" engineers and doctors), I understand the parent’s perspective intimately. I don’t just teach a student; I partner with the whole family. My greatest honor isn't just seeing my students attend elite schools like Eastman or Michigan—it’s being invited to their weddings and holding their babies years later. To me, teaching violin is about helping raise the person, not just the player.