The violin has been my passion and joy for more than 18 years. My performance experience includes venues from musicals and chamber ensembles to special events and solo performances. I have organized a comprehensive library of songs appropriate for any given occasion pertaining to any genre. To add variety to special events, my musical equipment includes acoustic and electric violins along with sound pedals paired with an amplifier. Please contact me to receive a prompt and comprehensive response. My goal is to provide each of my clients with excellent customer experience and a memorable performance.
What to Expect:
"In my 25 years as a professor at ISU, Rachael's gift as a technician on the violin ranks as the best undergraduate student I have ever had in my studio."
- Dr. Sarah Gentry , Violin Professor at ISU
"She is a first rate musician and a wonderful communicator with both words and music."
-Michael H. Dicker, Former Bassoon from Juilliard's School of Music
"Rachael's natural gifts include fast fingers, rote memory, and perfect pitch. Combine these gifts with her dedication to achieve perfection and you have the key ingredients to become a truly special musician."
-Laura Dokmo Polick, Chicagoland Private Teacher
"Her strong ability to be a great orchestra player and a leader among top players brought her consistent recognition at the state level."
-Laura Dokmo Polick, Chicagoland Private Teacher
"When elite musicians gather to compete, Rachael rises to the top due to her superb skills and poise under pressure."
-Laura Dokmo Polick, Chicagoland Private Teacher
".. a student who began taking lessons from me at 4 years of age and showed a rare musical ability even at this young age."
-Laura Dokmo Polick, Chicagoland Private Teacher
Influences & Inspiration:
Education: Illinois State University, Normal, IL Graduated May 2017
Bachelor in Music Performance
Work History:
Professional Violinist, Chicagoland Area, IL August 2006-Current
* Performed extensively at various venues including weddings, banquets, night clubs, restaurants, and special events
* Networked with professional musicians in the Chicagoland area
* Experienced performing with acoustic and electric violins
Violin Teacher, Private Studio, Batavia, IL
* Established summer studio of 16 students with various skill levels
* Prepared private lesson plans based on observations of high-level Suzuki instructors
* Organized annual recitals to showcase student achievement
Group Instructor, String Project, Normal, IL
* Prepared group sessions for weekly classes
* Collaborated with co-workers to facilitate individual student learning while working as a group
Activities & Involvement:
Illinois State University Symphony Orchestra, Normal, IL
* Earned the principal stand senior year
* Performed major works such as Shostakovich No. 10, Tchaikovsky No. 6, Dvorak No. 9, Rite of Spring, War Requiem
* Orchestrated violin sectionals to perfect challenging excerpts
* Performed in all musical and operatic productions through the School of Music
Illinois State University Chamber Ensembles, Normal, IL
* Partook in the School of Music's main chamber ensemble, exclusively for students with talent scholarships
* Obtained a principle position for two years
* Enhanced skills by joining coached ensemble groups for six consecutive semesters
Musikgarten Certification Training, Wheaton, IL
* Learned this teaching method through song, speech, motion, music, and organology from class time and observation
Suzuki Certification Training, Stevens Point, WI
* Completed classes and observations to teach the Suzuki method of violin instruction
American String Teachers Association, Normal, IL
* Classified as a member of the largest national organization in America for string teachers
Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra, Elgin, IL
* Attained a spot in the front of the first violin section
* Developed connections with colleagues, directors, and staff to help network with neighboring towns
* Balanced multiple orchestras, private lessons, school, teaching, and gigging
* Gained valuable experience performing in major cities on the East Coast
Tri-M Music Honor Society, Batavia, IL
* Provided musical leadership and philanthropic service
Suzuki Institute, Stevens Point, WI
* Worked with elite teachers and performers to help enhance orchestral, technical, and individual performance skills
* Performed in honors recitals annually
Awards & Honors:
Illinois State University Concerto Competition Finalist, Normal, IL
* Placed in the final four out of 75 graduate and undergraduate students
All Around Best Musician, Batavia High School, IL
* Won annual Concerto Competition performing Violin Concerto in E Minor Op. 64 by Mendelssohn
All-State Honors Orchestra, Peoria, IL
* Achieved the highest level of orchestral placement in Illinois and was seated the Principal Violinist
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