About
The instructors at 1st Chair Strings strive to create an environment in which students of all ages can enjoy music while continuing to learn and develop their individual talents. We understand that each of our students has a different reason for seeking musical instruction.
For more information about 1st Chair Strings, please contact 1stChairStrings@gmail.com or call 301-651-1106.
Lauren has developed a wide variety of curricula, from a program for a four-year-old boy who wanted to study in depth several different stringed instruments to a curriculum for a father and son who were interested in studying and playing together. Lauren states, “Not every student wants to major in music; some just enjoy it. I want to develop their personal strengths and help them explore the role music plays in their lives.”
Howard has taught guitar professionally since 1998. He enjoys instructing in all styles of music including rock, blues, jazz, classical and country; he also teaches bass guitar. Howard taught guitar with Music and Arts Centers in Rockville, Germantown and Frederick for 22 years, before switching to all virtual lessons in 2020. He has since resumed in-person lessons but continues to offer an online option. Howard has a strong interest in music theory, which he imparts in a straightforward manner that students find both relevant and appealing. He enthusiastically assists students as they progress in their school ensembles as well as their own extracurricular bands. When not teaching or playing guitar, Howard enjoys spending time biking and hiking with his family.
Preet is an active cellist in the DC/MD/VA region. She has experience in both private cello instruction as well as chamber music coaching. Preet works with students from age 5 through adult to create programs customized to their goals. Whether the focus is expanding their musical appreciation with fun pieces and duets, or developing skills and technique, Preet’s aim is to help students find their musical voice so they may use it as an outlet for expression. She strives to ensure her students enjoy the process and are excited and motivated to learn!
In addition to an extensive performing career, Anna loves sharing her knowledge with her private viola and violin students. Anna served as an instructor for the American Independent Music Association and is currently the Graduate Viola Teaching Assistant at the University of Tennessee where she is completing a Master of Music degree.
Katherine has worked in many different settings including teaching violin and viola privately, coaching chamber ensembles, and rehearsing full ensembles. Her experience has allowed her to work with a wide variety of students of all ages and levels. Her teaching focuses largely on developing a good foundation of technique and exploring the magic that is music. Katherine is acutely aware of her students’ unique personalities and their individual needs, and works with students to develop a positive and goal-oriented mindset so that students can reach their highest potential!
Adrina works beautifully with students of all ages, but is especially gifted at connecting with students as young as age 3. During college, Adrina worked as a representative for Sam Ash Music. Her position at Sam Ash proved a terrific musical connection as Adrina frequently assisted professional musicians who were seeking a session violinist for their studio recordings. During her time at Sam Ash Music, Adrina also met parents in need of private instruction for their children who were pursuing music. Before long, Adrina was fully immersed in private teaching and performing music on the vibrant Las Vegas strip. Adrina encouraged her students to also play music at First Friday events each month in the old downtown Arts District of Las Vegas.
Adrina continued teaching violin in Pennsylvania while completing her Bachelor of Science Degree in Graphic Design at The Art Institute of Philadelphia. Adrina currently lives in Maryland where she adores creating art, teaching, photography and performing with musicians from around the world. In her free time, Adrina loves to jam with her son and assist his orchestra at school.
Our students hold top chairs and perform with many orchestras including:
Potomac Valley Youth Orchestra
Maryland Classic Youth Orchestra
Frederick Regional Youth Orchestra
The Academy of Saint Cecilia Youth Orchestra
Frederick All County Orchestra
Montgomery County Honors Orchestra
Maryland All State Orchestra
Frederick Symphony Orchestra
Young Artists of America
Howard County Youth Orchestra
Peabody Youth Orchestra
Our students also receive superior ratings in both County and State
Solo and Ensemble Festivals!
Reach us at 1stChairStrings@gmail.com or 301-651-1106.