Cello lessons with Peter Williams
Cello Teacher and Cello Student

Cello Lessons

“Peter is an outstanding cello teacher. We’ve been part of his studio for 5 years now, and plan to stay through our child’s middle and high school years. We love the Suzuki philosophy, and Peter’s studio is a nurturing, high-integrity working example.” – Stephanie (Google Review)

As a certified Suzuki cello instructor for 20 years, my studio is special because of my student’s achievements, positive approach and a teaching philosophy that tailors instruction to the unique needs of the child.  Each week, my students receive a private lesson and a group lesson in Seattle’s Ballard/Crown Hill neighborhood.

Go to Student Corner for more info on lessons and contact me to arrange a complimentary trial lesson.

Private lessons

  • We cover the assigned material from the previous week which consists of pieces, exercises, scales, note reading, music theory and ensemble music. At the end of the lesson, I assign new material.
  • The parent or adult attends, takes detailed notes & helps their child with daily practice.

Group lessons

  • Students perform repertoire, either as a class or individually.
  • Students develop the ear and cello technique, study music theory, practice note reading, and play ensemble music — often from movies and other popular sources.
  • Most importantly, group lessons are FUN!

Please visit Student Corner or contact me for more information or to arrange observations and a complimentary trial lesson.

Cello concerts and recitals

Performances

“What truly sets Peter apart is the way he helps students see the bigger picture of music. Yes, he diligently focuses on technique and performance but he also helps them understand the role of music in the world around them. Through community performances at local farmers markets, holiday events, and recitals, Peter gives his students a chance to share their music, build confidence, and experience the joy of connecting with others through their playing.” – Lorraine (Google Review)

In addition to being a cello instructor, I lead many performances throughout the year since they are essential to building student motivation, musicianship, self-confidence and a sense of camaraderie & community.

Students enrolled in my studio perform in two recitals and one concert a year. We also give play-in performances at farmer’s markets, retirement communities and holiday venues. The Cello Experiment, my advanced cello choir, has performed at Folklife, KING 5 Television, Seattle Mariners, and elsewhere.

Go here for videos from our most recent recital, or visit the Student Corner to view the performance calendar!

Suzuki cello instructor in Seattle, Peter Williams

Peter Williams, Cello Instructor

Suzuki cello teacher in Seattle
Suzuki cello instructor in Seattle, Peter Williams

“We feel so fortunate to have landed with Peter. Eight years on and it’s impressive how well he evolves his teaching to match the development level and maturity of the student as the student grows, not only as a cello player but as a person. He is able to tap into what engages and motivates each student, and the kids excel as quality cello players as a result. Our child enjoys playing, is committed to the instrument, and feels ownership over his practice, credit to Peter.” – Elizabeth (Google Review)

If you are looking for a cello instructor for your child ages 3 and up, my focus for over 20 years has been teaching cello lessons to children individually and in groups.

I grew up in Seattle and began studying cello as a Suzuki student at age five. As a youth I soloed with the Northwest Chamber Orchestra and performed in master classes for Lynn Harrell and Ralph Kirshbaum. I studied Cello Performance at Indiana University and the University of Washington where I received my BA in Music.

I have been a cello instructor in the Suzuki Method for 20 years and the former cello director at the Suzuki Institute of Seattle.  I believe that with encouragement, patience, student/parent/teacher commitment, and – most importantly – love, all children can learn and become enriched by music.  My students have gone on to study at major conservatories, such as the Royal Conservatory of Scotland and Lawrence University, been finalists in the Seattle Young Artists Concerto Competition, and have composed music for the Seattle Symphony. I look forward to discussing how my experience and our mutual appreciation for music can benefit your child and family!

-Peter

Visit Student Corner to learn more, or contact me to arrange an observation or trial lesson!

Cello Lessons

The Suzuki Method

“When Love is deep, much can be accomplished.”

-Dr. Shinichi Suzuki

Dr. Shinichi Suzuki was the inventor of the Suzuki Teaching Method whose central tenet was the belief that “Every Child Can!” He believed that talent and ability was not inborn but could be learned, and with a nurturing environment, all children–even as young as 2 and 3–are capable of learning to play music.

Farmer Market Fun!
Cello Student

Tuition & Policies

“If you’re looking for a teacher who cares deeply, truly connects with students, and coaches them to reach their full cello-playing potential, all within a structured, positive, and warm community environment, then I cannot recommend Mr. Peter more!” – Katie (Google Review)

Studio Dates:

Studio is open for 37 weeks during the academic year.  Lessons begin on the Tuesday after Labor Day and conclude the third full-week of June.  Summer lessons occur in July and August and are optional.

Tuition:

Lesson length Monthly tuition (prorated)
20 mins 253 per month
30 mins 296 per month
40 mins 345 per month
50 mins 403 per month
60 mins 470 per month
  • Tuition ensures the holding of a lesson slot for your child for 37 weeks.  Included are weekly group lessons, two recitals and one (or more) concerts per academic year, accompanist fees and rental costs for concert and class facilities.  Tuition is based on student’s lesson length, not the number of individual or group lessons received.
  • Tuition is not reduced to compensate for missed lessons or canceled group lessons.
  • Tuition is due by the first lesson of the month and no later than the 7th of each month.
  • Tuition is to be paid September through May. No tuition is collected in June.  Please note that tuition is already prorated and remains the same for those months.
  • I except Venmo payments @Peter-Williams-111 and Zelle payments at Pfwill@msn.com. Payments may also be cash or check.  Checks may be mailed to me at 9750 4th Ave NW Unit A, Seattle, WA 98117.

Summer Lesson Tuition:

Lesson length Cost per lesson
20 mins $65 per lesson
30 mins $76 per lesson
40 mins $89 per lesson
50 mins $104 per lesson
60 mins $121 per lesson

For a complete list of Studio Policies, please visit the Student Corner.

Student Corner
(206) 715-1272 or peter@seattlesuzukicello.com