Dr. Graebert has over 20 years of teaching experience and a strong foundation in music education. He holds degrees from the Oberlin Conservatory and the Cleveland Institute of Music and is fully registered (books 1-10) with the Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA) (see profile). Dr. Graebert previously served on the faculties of Radford and High Point Universities and currently maintains a private studio in Summerfield, NC 27358. In addition to concerto/recital performances, Dr. Graebert serves as the Principal Cellist of the Salisbury Symphony, Principal Cellist with the North Carolina Chamber Orchestra, and the Associate Principal Cellist with the Winston Salem Symphony.
Studio Enrollment
Studio enrollment is open to all levels and ages* and includes:
- Weekly private cello lessons
- Group classes/performance classes
- Access to a feature-rich web application
- An exclusive video library
- Semi-annual recitals
*Admission is contingent on availability and the results of a trial lesson (required).
Online Cello Lessons
Taking lessons online is not just possible, it can be advantageous:
- They are not bound geographically giving students all over the world access to a highly qualified teacher and allow friends and family world-wide to attend online recitals and celebrate student achievement
- They allow the teacher to strategically direct the student's focus by choosing what to show the camera and through screen share, links, images, videos, and more
- No time is lost unpacking and packing up and so they can start and end on time
- Students are typically more comfortable in their home
- The teacher can see and give feedback to the student's practice space
Required Equipment for Online Lessons
- Computer, tablet, or phone
- An internet connection
- Microphone
- A dedicated space free from distractions and loud sounds
Recommended Equipment for Online Lessons
- A high-quality microphone (Zoom handheld microphones such as the H1 or Q2n 4k are ideal)
- A high-quality video camera (Zoom q2n k4 is both a high-quality camera and microphone combo)
- An internet connection that provides 7mbps download or higher
Stand Partner
When enrolling in lessons with Dr. Graebert, all students have access to a web application (Stand Partner) that greatly enhances the student experience. Students can keep track of their assignments, attendance, practice log, and payments, and they have access to an exclusive video library
Teaching Philosophy
The Suzuki Method
Suzuki believed that talent could be learned. He postulated that everyone who speaks their native tongue must already be “talented” since learning any language demands a high level of ability. Based on this observation, he launched a movement applying the principles of language learning to music and ultimately created an entire educational system named the “Talent Education Movement.” In music, the student observes and imitates an accurate model from the teacher and through listening to recordings daily. Next, the student applies the new information through numerous repetitions at home. The parent assumes the role of the home teacher by re-teaching the lesson daily. Through numerous small adjustments made during repetition, the student turns information into reliable skills. Some of the main tenants of the Suzuki Method include:
- Parent involvement
- Early Beginning
- Listening
- Repetition
- Respect/Encouragement/Nurturing Environment
- Learning with Others
- Teaching primarily through music rather than dry technical exercises
To learn more visit the Suzuki Association of the Americas (S.A.A) website here.