Testimonials

"The environment that Suzanne has established within Cellochan is one of nurture. My skills as a cellist grew under Suzanne because of careful attention to not only the physical demands of playing, but also to the emotions that allowed me to create music. My lessons with Suzanne evolved into conversations, where we would search for the easiest and most fluid way for me to create music. One of the greatest parts of Cellochan though, comes from the amazing group of students that support and inspire each other to keep making music."

Caitlin Dickinson - a winner in the 2006 Pioneer High School Concerto Competition

"My name is Leslie Lyons and I began studying with Suzanne when I was 15. With weekly lessons and numerous performance opportunities, she helped me prepare for my BM in cello performance at Ithaca College. From there, I pursued a Master's degree in cello at the University of Wisconsin, and I am presently working at Shar as one of the company's new apprentices. I attribute much of my success to Suzanne's excellent guidance and Cellochan's supportive environment."

Leslie Lyons

"I play the cello because I love it! Music has always been a huge part of my life and it is wonderfully fulfilling to be able to play. Suzanne has showed me how to appreciate my talents and I play to improve them and become a musician. I have fun playing and I know that it is wonderful for my mind; making music has just always been something I look to for both fun and intellectual stimulation. It helps that cellochan has taught me to use the cello to help others- I play for that aspect as well. My lessons and my music go hand in hand; I'm happy with the cello."

Martha Girsch

"I play the cello to learn how to work with myself and others. I play to have lots of fun and to learn how to be diligent. I also play to gain self confidence and self-worth. I play the cello because it brings joy to my family and friends. I play cello to make beautiful music."

Pamela Dishaw

"I first met the cello when I decided to join the amateur orchestra Seoul National University Medical Orchestra of my school, School of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea, when I was a freshman. I chose the cello simply because my sister, a flutist, recommended me this instrument. Soon I found that the cello was a perfect instrument for me - my ear was already tuned for the cello sound, my inner rhythm was always not as fast as those of the smaller-string players, and I loved to play the lower-sound part of an ensemble piece enjoying the melody of the smaller strings. After a long pause of ten years, now I have children old-enough to learn the violins and I am dreaming of playing music with my children, or with my niece, an amateur cellist. After all, playing the cello made me to meet my husband, who was the concertmaster of our orchestra. I thank the cello for the great family I love so much and I will enjoy playing the cello for my life."

Aurea Kang

"There are a couple of reasons why I play the cello. One is that I really enjoy playing an instrument; I feel that is an accomplishment. Another reason is that I've learned so much about myself through playing the cello. Without the cello I would have never learned or understood many things about myself. I also like having other people hear the music, especially when we go to the hospital to play. You can tell that people really enjoy it. It makes them happier and this makes me happy."

Emily Cox

"I play the cello because after a long day at school it helps me relax and settle down. Music is like a second language to me. I am very proud to speak it through my cello. And now that my mom plays the cello also, it is a lot more fun because now I can play duets with another cello. I also like it because when I am sad, it will cheer me up almost instantly."

Juliano Stewart

"Hey Suzanne, How are you? I'm having lots of fun at camp. I'm in the back of the section and loving it!! I'm learning a lot too (of course.) Hope to see you soon.!

Sydney Talcott ~ Postcard from Blue Lake Arts Camp

"I have tiny cellos swimming around in my head! I want to play ALL the concerts!"

Kepler Eberle

"Suzanne, thankyou for the wonderful year. Sophia has grown so much working with you."

Dan and Deanna Mitas ~ Parents of Sophia