Holden B
Instruments: Cello
Styles: Classical, Jazz, Rock, Folk
Holden B
Instruments: Cello
Styles:
Classical, Jazz, Rock, Folk
Where I Teach:
Ages Taught: 10-80
Master Degree: Florida State University
2019 - 20 - Assistant Principal Cello, Northwest Florida Symphony
2018-20 - Section Cello, Substitute Principal, Tallahassee Symphony
2017-19 - Co-Principal Cello, FSU Orchestras
2018-19 - FSU Graduate Assistantship
2018, 19 - Orchestra Fellowship, Sewanee Summer Music Festival
I grew up in Nashville, Tennessee where as a young person I played cello and bass in all sorts of groups - from rock and funk bands to jazz big bands and combos. I fell in love with classical music in my early 20’s, and I've pursued it passionately ever since. I earned a M.M. in cello performance in 2019 from FSU where I studied with Greg Sauer. I also hold an undergraduate degree from the University of Tennessee Chattanooga, where I double majored in International Studies and Spanish. I have performed with the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra since 2018 and also the assistant principal cellist of the Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra. In addition, I have played with the Richmond Symphony, the Ocala Symphony, Sinfonia Gulf Coast, Northwest Florida Ballet, Sewanee Summer Festival Symphony, and many other orchestras and ensembles. If it's not obvious, I love performing orchestral repertoire, but also chamber music and pretty much anything else you can think of - and this love of music extends to teaching. These days, when I am not playing music, you can usually find me outside in the garden, or on the saddle of a bicycle.
I began teaching cello in my early 20s, teaching public school strings classes and private pupils while in my undergrad at UTC. I also taught throughout my graduate degree, teaching privately, cover teaching undergraduate students for my teacher, and also teaching college students. In addition, I led orchestra sectionals, coached student chamber music ensembles, sat on jury panels, and wrote and performed programs for entire classes of K-12 students. In addition, I have experience as a professional contracted and freelance classical cellist - I've played with orchestras, recorded sessions, and performed in a string quartet professionally.
For young students, I typically start with pieces and concepts from the Suzuki books, but generally strive to help students feel excited and comfortable about playing and practicing the instrument. This involves musical games, learning to play by ear, and beginning to learn to read music. With older students, I teach how to practice, how to execute technique, and then tailor lessons to students' goals and interests. Throughout teaching I play duets with students, and encourage students to become comfortable with performance and collaboration.
As a teacher, my goal is to equip students with the tools they need to succeed at their personal goals, encourage students to become dedicated thinkers and learners, and also to foster a loving relationship with music and social consciousness. I generally focus on teaching students how to practice and problem-solve, and set goals for themselves. Throughout the learning process, I believe it is important to practice and study music in an empowering way, so I want to learn about my students in order to help them practice music in an empowering way that intersects with their lives and understanding of the world around them.
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