Christensen String Studio

About the Studio

I am a professional violinist with a doctorate in violin performance from Stony Brook University in New York. After 17 years in higher education and a performing career that included concerts throughout the U.S., Europe, and China, I returned to my home state of Colorado and established a violin studio modeled after some of the incredible programs I've encountered in my travels. The studio has grown since it's inauguration in fall 2017, but I have graduations each year so I expect room for 3-4 new students each fall.

Suzuki training and philosophy

I received my Suzuki teacher training in the late 90s from Mary Kay Neal of Buffalo Suzuki Strings. The Suzuki method is a philosophy of education centered on positivity and love. Students start very young at age 4-6 and grow naturally into their musical abilities in the same way that they grow naturally into their fluency in their native language. A vital part of this philosophy is the social aspect of learning, which in my studio is incorporated in the weekly group class where students learn and play together, reinforcing and building on the skills learned in the weekly individual lessons, and in the vital participation of parents or caregivers in the learning process. I also accept advanced, non-Suzuki students who have progressed past the core Suzuki repertoire.

The Durango Studio

I am located at the historic Smiley Building, Studio 17 in downtown Durango. I have openings for a limited number of new students. If you are considering lessons for your child, please contact me soon!