I enjoy helping students grow new (or old) interests and follow their passions. My goal is to make music enjoyable while providing knowledge and learning tools. I show students how to expand and master the skills they need to achieve their musical goals & fulfillment. Happy to embrace and welcome all styles of learning :)
Classically-trained Violist & Singer/Songwriter holding a Bachelor of Music (McGill University, 2020) and with extensive teaching & performing experience across all different genres. Over 9 years of experience teaching/tutoring (former students at prestigious music schools such as CalArts) - all ages/levels welcome!
"Pandemic Discount" available to low-income individuals and to students who experience technological difficulties in virtual classes. Please inquire for more information!
Caitlin Smith
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(concealed information)
Professional Summary
Classically-trained [violist] and recent music-graduate with extensive teaching and performing experience. Collaborates frequently with Jazz, Folk, and Pop-Artists. Passionate about cultivating an inspiring - yet accessible - music-learning community, fostering growth and positive change.
Skills
Computer Literacy
Advanced Music Theory / Ear-Training
Teaching and Scheduling
Multi-Instrumentalist, Singer/Songwriter
Performance experience
Lesson Planning
Work History
January 2019 to Current
Self-Employed - Remote , Multiple Locations
Music Teacher
Substitute String Instructor at West Island Music Academy. Private Viola Instructor, part-time freelance.
Virtual Music Teacher at Lessons.com
March 2017 to November 2019
Self-Employed - Studio Musician and Performer - Montréal, Quebec
Performed as part of international tour with Jazz-folk group across Canada.
Studied scores at length to learn music in detail and develop suitable interpretations.
Studio Violist - recorded and premiered original music for local composers.
January 2012 to June 2015
Freelance Santa Monica, CA
Strings Coach and Orchestral Violist
Mentor to beginner string students at SAMO High School. Increased school-funding through chamber music performances.
Orchestral musician in recording of “We Are A River,” featured on a Foo Fighters HBO special [LA Youth Orchestra, 2014]
Education
McGill University (2020), Bachelor of Music - Montreal, Canada
- Jazz Performance Minor
- Coursework in Music Pedagogy and Philosophy
- Graduated with 3.4+ GPA
Santa Monica High School (2015) Santa Monica, CA
- Member of Symphony Orchestra (4 years) and Choir (3 years)
- Graduated cum laude 3.8+
I have known Caitlin for nearly a decade and we have worked on several musical collaborations together in that time. She approaches all situations with patience, professionalism and an open mind, and dedicates herself to giving her students the best experience with music they can possibly have. Her extensive experience with classical performance, as well as bluegrass and jazz, gives her an incredibly wholistic background as a musician, which would benefit students of all musical backgrounds.
I would absolutely recommend her to any prospective student who seeks to quickly grow as a violist and musician.
Caitlin is an amazing teacher. She really helped me understand the material and patiently answered all of my questions. Online classes have always been a challenge for me but Caitlin’s encouragement and knowledge have helped me improve and make classes much more enjoyable.
Caitlin is so knowledgeable yet understanding of my level, my strengths and what I need to work on. She really helped me!
The prospect of learning a new instrument can seem scary, especially when it is your first. With Caitlin, however, all my fears dissipated after just one lesson. This teacher cares deeply about her craft, her students, and knows exactly how to assist you down the path towards musicianship.
Caitlin has taught both me and my 11 year old nephew, and knew exactly how to help two nervous students feel comfortable and driven to improve. Young, old, or new... this is THE teacher for you!
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at her home | at your home | By webcam | |
1 hour | $35 | Not available | $35 |
5 hours | $28 | Not available | $175 |
10 hours | $20 | Not available | $350 |