Natalie is a dedicated teacher and currently holds her own studio in San Francisco. She is currently on faculty at the SFCM Pre-College coaching chamber music. Additionally, she has coached chamber music to young groups through the Lyceum Music Festival in Utah as well as Summer Music West in San Francisco.
English-born composer and international concert guitarist Ross Thompson (b. 1967) spent his childhood in Puerto Rico before moving with his family to the United States. Mr.
“As a teacher, I focus on students’ individual needs in order to help them realize their full potential as musicians. Technique, musicality, body posture and relaxation awareness are all integral pieces of the learning process. Helping students adhere to a productive daily practice schedule is also essential. I believe these are the keys to growth, opening infinite doors physically, mentally and musically.”
Lucas Chen, cellist, received his B.A. from UC Davis. He received his M.M. and Post-graduate diploma from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, studying with Jennifer Culp. Upon finishing his studies, Lucas has been enjoying a diverse career teaching and performing/recording both classical and mainstream music. He has served as mentor and coach for The Oakland Youth Orchestra and Summer Music West. He is principal cellist of the Bear Valley Music Festival and was a featured concerto soloist in August of 2016.
A native of Portland, Oregon, violinist Erica Ward received her B.M. from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, and her M.M. from the Cleveland Institute of Music, where her principal teachers were Camilla Wicks, Wei He, and Paul Kantor. Erica is Director and Resident Teaching Artist of violin at the Alameda String Academy, which she created out of a desire to help others experience the satisfaction that comes from making music with others, to pave sustainable pathways for music and the arts in a modern community, and, most importantly, to change the world with beauty.
Winner of countless state and national awards - more specifically in music categories ranging from Early Baroque to Late Classical. Primary Instructors have included Dr. Mark Sullivan (student of Menahem Pressler), Mack McCray (silver medal Enesco), and Jon Nakamatsu (gold medal Van Cliburn). Have taught at all levels from complete beginner to a prodigy and have also maintained a 100% pass record on the ABRSM international exam at all levels. Have studied Harpsichord and Fortepiano with Dr. Corey Jamason for three+ years and orchestral/choir conducting with Dr. Desjardins.
Akiko has been combining her teaching and performing career for more than 10 years.
Since obtaining her Masters of Music and Professional Studies Diploma from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, Akiko has won positions with the Marin Symphony, California Symphony, Monterey Symphony, Fresno Philharmonic, and Santa Cruz Symphony.