Liz Mathiesen, classically trained cellist available for private cello lessons in Seattle and online, offering instruction for beginner, intermediate, and advanced students of all ages.

Photo credit: Patty Tang

I started teaching private cello lessons in-studio and online in 2018. I teach students of all ages at all experience levels—from absolute beginner to college-ready—in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood.

I studied cello and music education at Bowling Green State University in northwest Ohio as a Hansen Fellow—the highest merit-based performance scholarship offered to music students at BGSU. Some of my excellent teachers there and elsewhere have included Dr. Brian Snow, Dr. Christopher Gross, and Audrey Simons. During my time at BGSU, I student-taught at several K-12 public and charter schools, specializing in string music education and orchestral programs.

Outside of music, I’m a proud AmeriCorps alumna partnered with Habitat for Humanity Seattle-King & Kittitas Counties.

Hi, I’m Liz!

About the Studio
About the Studio

  • "Liz's positive attitude, musical instincts, and clear communication make her an ideal collaborator... I am continuously impressed by her tenacity and determination to find success in all she does."

    — Gracie Hayes, violinist

  • "Liz is very intelligent, talented, and goal-oriented. She rules!"

    — Sarah M., violinist

  • "Collaborating with Liz was a great experience! We worked together for four years, and she was always very prepared and pleasant to work with."

    — Hannah Z., pianist

A young woman with long brown hair, glasses, and a teal shirt playing a violin outdoors in front of a blurred green and white bokeh background.

Photo credit: Patty Tang

Why study with me?

There are plenty of excellent string musicians who teach. Most have classical performance backgrounds (which is great—I do too!), but little to no formal pedagogical training. What sets me apart is that I have an extensive background in cello performance as well as formal training for a career in music education. I’ve taught in public schools, private studios, and specialized classrooms for students with diverse learning needs for almost a decade.

My approach to teaching is inspired by the philosophies of Shinichi Suzuki, George Bornoff, and the great string pedagogues of today. I believe that every person is capable of becoming a great musician with the right guidance—and every student will take a different path to get there. Healthy playing technique and expressive musical fluency are at the center of every lesson with me, but each student’s individual curriculum is customized to their experience, goals, and learning needs.

Great teaching can make all the difference. If you’re interested in scheduling your free 30-minute trial lesson, click the button below—or learn more about the studio here.

Schedule Lesson