Teacher
MIKELSON CELLO STUDIO
Catherine maintains private studios in:
Marriottsville/Sykesville/Eldersburg (Home Studio)
Ellicott City (Perrin Violins)
Interested in Lessons?
Catherine Mikelson welcomes students ages 6 and up, from beginning through advanced levels, in a supportive and focused learning environment. Families interested in lessons are encouraged to reach out through the Contact form to learn more about studio opportunities.
"Where love is deep, much can be accomplished."
- Shinichi Suzuki
Experience and Outcomes
With over 15 years of teaching experience, Catherine uses a combination of traditional and Suzuki methods. As an active performer, she brings extensive real-world musical experience into her teaching studio. Her students have routinely earned seats in the Baltimore Symphony Youth Orchestras and Howard County GT Orchestras and are recognized for their strong technical foundation, beautiful tone, and musical maturity.
Teaching Philosophy
Students thrive when they feel both encouraged and challenged. Catherine fosters supportive studio environment where students grow confidence, mastery, and a lifelong love of music. Her teaching emphasizes healthy technique, expressive playing, beautiful tone production, and effective practice habits. Students learn not only how to play the cello, but also how to practice efficiently, navigate challenges, and meet long-term goals with patience and consistency.
Performance Opportunities
In addition to weekly lessons, students participate in studio recitals and outreach concerts. These experiences help students build confidence, set goals, develop stage presence, and experience the joy of sharing music with others.
Professional Development
Committed to continued growth as both a performer and educator, Catherine regularly participates in professional development and teacher training courses through the Suzuki Association of the Americas and other leading pedagogical programs.
Training Highlights:
Every Child Can, Suzuki Association of the Americas
Suzuki Cello Books 1-7, 2010-2015
Cello Pedagogy, Peabody Conservatory, 2012
Revisiting Suzuki Book 1, 2020, Avi Friedlander
Suzuki Book 2, 2021, Tanya Carey
Suzuki Book 3, 2021, Tanya Carey
Suzuki Books 4-6 Overview, 2021, Pam Devenport
Note: Catherine teaches all Suzuki levels, with emphasis on the foundational books that support long-term technical and musical development.
