Alex Cello Teacher

I am currently earning my doctorate in cello performance at the University of Toronto, where I study with principal cellist of the Toronto Symphony, Joseph Johnson. Originally from the states, I have performed with numerous orchestras and served as cellist of a fellowship string quartet for two years. While I hold two performance degrees, teaching is my passion and I welcome cellists of all levels! 

Bio and Teaching Philosophy: 

Alex Chambers-Ozasky is currently earning his doctorate in cello performance at the University of Toronto, where he studies  with Joseph Johnson, Principal cellist of the Toronto Symphony. Originally from the states, he earned his Master’s at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he served as cellist of the Graduate Hunt String Quartet through the Madison Symphony Orchestra. With the quartet, he gave dozens of elementary school outreach concerts each year, and performed regularly in the Madison area. Alex recently served as the Assistant Principal cellist of the La Crosse Symphony Orchestra in Wisconsin, and is currently an associate member with the Civic Orchestra of Chicago. He has also performed regularly with the Illinois Symphony Orchestra and the Wisconsin Philharmonic. Alex has taught and coached young musicians at MacPhail Center for Music in Minneapolis and The International Cello Institute. While living in Chicago, Alex was the cello instructor at Lane Tech College Prep School. In Madison, he taught cello and conducted the String Ensemble at the EAGLE school.  

I find teaching to be one of the most fulfilling aspects of my life as a musician. I believe in a holistic approach to teaching, which involves getting to know each of my students personally. There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to teaching. Everyone possesses a unique set of strengths, and faces a unique set of challenges. In my experience, this approach leads to a more satisfying and effective lesson experience for my students and myself. Learning to play the cello is as much mental as it is kinesthetic.  I provide students, not only with the fundamental technical instruction for playing the cello, but also with techniques for visualization, creativity, and imagination in the practice room and onstage. I recommend students use the Essential Elements Books as well as the Suzuki Books when starting out.