Michael Graham

I am a cellist and a cello teacher, performing frequently with the Oakland Symphony, the San Francisco Ballet, the New Century Chamber Orchestra, in San Francisco productions of Broadway musicals, and on tour with singer/songwriter Van Morrison.
As a teacher, I have taught and coached at Mills College, San Francisco State University, California State University East Bay, Sacramento State University, Santa Clara University, and the Crowden School. My students have included members, principal cellists, and concerto soloists with the Young People’s Chamber Orchestra and the Young People’s Symphony Orchestra and the San Francisco Youth Orchestra. I also greatly enjoy teaching adults.
I work with my students to make cello playing easy, enjoyable, and music-centered. We focus on relaxed and efficient solutions to technical challenges, and on listening carefully and imaginatively to create beautiful music. Playing the cello requires a commitment to regular practicing in order to make it rewarding, but the payoff is immensely satisfying.