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Austin Strings Teachers

Most of our teachers offer in person and Zoom lessons - go ahead and contact them directly for scheduling!

Click here to download our complete list of teachers; below is some more information about each of them. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at 512.918.1863. Our teachers set their own rates and do their own scheduling, but we can talk with you about who would be the best fit for you or your child.

Chris Abdo

Classical, Pop, Musical Theater, R&B, Country

Voice, Piano

Contact: 512-814-8932, chris@synergisticsinging.com

Brian Vose

Styles: Classical, Jazz, Blues, Rock, Fiddle

Ages 8-Adult

Beginning to Advanced – Electric and Upright Bass, Music Theory

Beginning to Intermediate-Violin (through Suzuki book 4), Viola, Guitar, Mandolin, Cello (through Suzuki book 5)

Violin, Viola, Double Bass, Cello, Guitar

Brian entered the world of music at a young age when he started playing both electric bass and guitar. He quickly gravitated to the upright bass and earned a bachelors degree in music education with emphasis on music theory and orchestral string instruments from Eastern Illinois University. His career and professional development continued as he taught elementary and middle school orchestras in Illinois and Missouri. After 5 years of teaching in the public school systems, Brian moved to Austin to teach independently, and has been doing so for 16 years. During his time in Austin, he has developed a number of diverse curricula and teaching styles to suit all ages, skill levels and aspirations. Brian believes that music is an important part of life, no matter the capacity. He enjoys teaching people of all ages and ability levels, including beginning adults.

Contact: 512-697-9503, Brian@BrianVose.com

Randall Ward

rock, blues, folk, jazz

Acoustic & Electric Guitar

Randy has been teaching with Austin Strings since 2002. He has 25 years touring and performing experience and has been teaching guitar for the past 15 years. Students and parents give great feedback, saying they have never learned more in so little time. He specializes in Rock, Pop, Blues, acoustic finger-style and slide guitar.

Contact: 512-789-2244, randall@grandecom.net

Sam Gray

Styles: Classical, Folk, Celtic, Fiddle, Any!

Cello, Viola

Sam is a 5th generation Austinite and has played cello and viola for over 16 years. They have played with the Williamson County Orchestra, AYO, and Vivace Youth Orchestra. They’ve studied theory, and music education at Texas State University. They teach beginner and intermediate cello and viola with a focus on theory, technique, and performance/audition prep. Can teach multiple play styles including classical, folk, & fiddle, . Excited to teach students of any age or ability, especially knowledgeable and accepting of LGBTQ+ students.

Sam also runs our quarterly group workshop called “Lost in Strings.” Follow us on Facebook or Instagram for schedule announcements!

Contact: 512-850-0462, samisgraymusic@gmail.com

Katie Nott

Classical, Bluegrass, Old Time, Cajun, Irish, Blues and Jazz

Violin, Viola

Katie Nott has taught at Austin Strings since 2003. With over 20 years teaching and playing experience; she started on piano at age five and added violin at age ten. Katie graduated from Lake Forest College where she studied both violin performance and studio art. She completed her Master of Fine Arts at Savannah College of Art and Design. As a versatile freelance musician, Katie performs violin, fiddle, viola and improvisational styles with local bands and ensembles. She is a founding member of Lantana Strings, an Austin string quartet. This season also marks her tenth year with the Austin Civic Orchestra. Past orchestras include the Temple Symphony and in the first violin sections of the DeKalb Symphony of Georgia, the North Suburban Symphony of Lake Forest and the Hillsdale College Community Orchestra in Michigan. Growing up, she participated in the Ohio All-State and Region Orchestras and also the Fort Wayne Youth Symphony. 

 

For students ages 6 and over. Classical technique with some fun pieces to motivate a student's interest. Overall emphasis on note reading, intonation and how to get the most out of practicing in order to gain a skill that will last a lifetime.  A fall and spring recital are part of lessons. 

Contact: 512-587-5482, katieviolinlessons@gmail.com

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