Selah Kwak

Education

GPD, The Hartt School, University of Hartford

MM, The Hartt School, University of Hartford

BA, Gettysburg College

Inspired by her friend’s mom, Selah Kwak began studying the violin at age 7. A few years later, she joined the Hartt School Community Division, where she studied with Teri until graduating high school. Selah graduated Summa Cum Laude from Gettysburg College, where she double majored in psychology and music. During her time there, she studied with Dr. Yeon-Su Kim and played in masterclasses for the JACK Quartet, Shuffle Concert, Decoda, Stony Brook Contemporary Chamber Players, and others. She recently graduated from the University of Hartford with a Master of Music degree in violin performance and Suzuki pedagogy, along with a Graduate Professional Diploma. Her teachers there were Teri Einfeldt, with whom she received her long-term Suzuki training, and Dr. Katie Lansdale. Selah currently teaches at the Hartt Community Division, The Hotchkiss School, and through her private studio, and is a member of the Hartford Symphony Orchestra. When not playing the violin, she enjoys hiking, traveling, and walking dogs.

Teaching Philosophy

“Music exists for the purpose of growing an admirable heart.” – Dr. Shinichi Suzuki

Much like Dr. Suzuki, my goal of teaching violin is not to produce as many future music majors as I possibly can, but rather, to foster and nurture the growth of my students’ characters through music. There is so much more to gain from learning an instrument outside of being able to “play music”. Not only do numerous studies show the benefits of music on brain development (for one), it also promotes the blossoming of children’s personalities and characteristics; learning to play an instrument requires patience, resilience, dedication, and problem-solving skills (among many more!). Through learning music, it is my hope that my students will become mature, empathetic, and responsible humans. As a teacher, it is my responsibility to help instill these ideals. My goal during lessons is to create a safe and loving environment and to be someone around whom students can fully be themselves; learning an instrument is the added benefit.