“I had been in love with the cello forever, so high on hope and low on wisdom, I purchased my first cello with the hope of teaching myself to play. Once I realized that I would never progress with self-guided cello, I searched online for a teacher. I am so thankful that I found Olga Redkina. She is gracious and patient enough to take a mature beginner student – I was 55 years old at the time – with no music background. I could not read music and did not know how to hold a cello or a bow. With daily practice, weekly lessons, and annual recitals, I have made significant progress. Fast forward seven years and approximately 3,000 cello hours: I have attained some but not all of my cello goals. I can now play expressively and have mastered some difficult pieces. I can play for others and with others. I joined a local community band and recently had the opportunity to play at Carnegie Hall. With Olga’s expertise and my perseverance, my dream of becoming a cellist is now a reality. I look forward to continuing my cello journey with Olga’s guidance, and I can’t thank her enough.”
