The 1st Austin Cello Festival

Amplifying Austin’s Love for Cello—One Event at a Time! 🎻

As if I didn’t have enough projects on my plate already, I’ve gone ahead and organized the first-ever Austin Cello Festival—a unique event designed specifically for cello learners of all levels, from beginners to advanced high school students. And of course, adult learners are always welcome!

For a city that proudly calls itself the Live Music Capital of the World, I couldn’t help but notice a gap—our young and beginning cellists are missing out on the musical "vitamins" they need to grow and thrive. That’s what motivated me to neglect my family just a little (sorry, everyone!) and carve out the time to make this festival a reality.

A Community-Driven Celebration of Cello

What excites me most is that I’m not alone in this vision! Several local cello teachers have expressed their enthusiasm and have been looking for something just like this—a space where students can come together, learn, grow, and celebrate their love for the cello. Whether you're an aspiring young cellist or a passionate adult learner, this event is for you.

Introducing Our Faculty

We are thrilled to welcome an outstanding lineup of faculty for the first-ever Austin Cello Festival!

🎶 Horacio Contreras
Professor of Cello at the University of North Texas and author of Exercises for the Cello in Various Combinations of Double Stops, Horacio Contreras is a renowned educator and performer dedicated to helping cellists refine their technique and artistry.

For the first time ever in ATX, Professor Horacio Contreras will lead a technique class based on his renowned book, Exercises for the Cello in Various Combinations of Double Stops. This is a rare opportunity for cellists to learn directly from the author himself, diving into essential exercises designed to build strength, control, and precision. Whether you're looking to improve your double stops, refine your left-hand technique, or develop greater musical skills, this class is not to be missed!

Don’t miss this exclusive chance to study with one of today’s leading cello pedagogues—join us and take your playing to the next level! 🎶

🎶 Dr. Daniel Saenz
Professor of Cello at Sam Houston State University, Dr. Daniel Saenz is an accomplished performer and teacher with a passion for guiding students toward technical mastery and expressive playing. His extensive experience in solo, chamber, and orchestral performance makes him an invaluable addition to our festival faculty.

With these incredible clinicians leading the way, this festival promises to be an inspiring and enriching experience for all cellists! Stay tuned for more details, and feel free to reach out with any questions.

🎶 Dr. Shu-Yi Scott
A seasoned cello teacher coach, Suzuki Cello Teacher Trainer, and creator of the "Learning in Motion" course, Shu-Yi Scott brings over 30 years of teaching experience—as a Suzuki and Dalcroze teacher, a Suzuki cello mom, and a mentor to students of diverse learning styles and needs. Her class, "Tension-Release: Learning in Motion," has grown in popularity over the past few years and will be offered live in Austin for the very first time at this festival! This engaging, movement-based approach helps cellists of all ages and levels explore tension and release in a fun and interactive way, unlocking more fluid and expressive playing.

With these exceptional clinicians leading the way, the Austin Cello Festival promises to be an inspiring, enriching, and transformative experience for all participants. We can't wait to share this musical journey with you!

What to Expect at the Austin Cello Festival

🎻 Technique Classes – Hands-on sessions to refine bowing, shifting, and tone production
🎻 Master Classes – Learn from expert cellists and watch inspiring live coaching
🎻 Cello Choir Rehearsal – Play alongside fellow cellists in a joyful ensemble
🎻 Celebration Concert – A chance to showcase what we’ve learned and share music together

This festival isn’t just about improving technique—it’s about building a cello-loving community in ATX and inspiring students to find joy in their playing.

Join Us!

Time: April 5, 2025, 12:30 registration

Location: St. Matthew’s Episcopal, 8134 Mesa Drive

$110- Registration & Payment Form Link CLICK HERE

🎻 Teachers! Refer 3+ students & get FREE admission to all events! 🎉

Join us in building Austin’s cello community—spread the word and enjoy the festival on us! 🎶

Here’s to amplifying Austin’s love for cello, one event at a time! 🎶