Pre-College Training

To pursue music at the college level as a  cellist the student must possess an in-depth knowledge of their instrument, the ability to communicate musically, frequent performing experience and a solid general music theory background. Students of Dr. Mishkin receive a rigorous training consisting of 60 or 75-minute weekly private lessons, weekly participation in an area orchestra and/or chamber music group, monthly advanced studio class where each student performs for their peers and receives feedback from one another, and studio recitals.  Through her affiliations with ASTA and OR-ASTA, MTNA and OMTA, Oregon Suzuki Association and Suzuki Association of the Americas, Oregon Cello Society, Royal Conservatory of Toronto, Associated Board of Royal Schools of Music, area orchestra directors and professional colleagues, students of Dr. Mishkin are provided numerous opportunities to enter solo competitions for scholarships, performance opportunities such as performing a concerto with orchestra or representing your division, region or state-level ensembles, and earning exam certificates.   Students have performed in masterclass for such cellists as Peter Wiley, David Finckel, Alban Gerhardt, Johannes Moser, Richard Aaron, and Anthony Elliott, and have performed concerti with Portland Youth Philharmonic, the Beaverton Symphony, and the Jewish Community Orchestra.

Dr. Valdine Mishkin received her Doctorate of Musical Arts from Rice University and will expertly prepare prospective college music students for entrance exams in piano proficiency, theory, harmony, counterpoint, and history. These classes are offered privately or in groups.

Willamette University cello class Fall 2018