Biography

Hannah is the founder of Elevate Strings Studio and a highly experienced violin instructor with over 16 years of teaching experience. Beginning her teaching career at just 16, she has developed a refined, results-driven approach that blends technical precision with creativity, confidence-building, and long-term musical growth.

She began playing violin at the age of four and has over 28 years of performance experience. Hannah trained for 13 years at the Northern Virginia Suzuki Music School under renowned pedagogue Ronda Cole, whose mentorship laid the foundation for her deeply individualized teaching style. Her early achievements include performing at a Bach symposium at the Smithsonian Institution at age 5, debuting as a soloist with orchestra at 14, and attending the Heifetz International Music Institute at 15.

Hannah has worked with internationally recognized artists including Pamela Frank, Nick Kendall, Katie Lansdale, Brian Lewis, and Marylou Speaker Churchill. She has performed at premier venues such as the Kennedy Center and Strathmore Hall, won numerous competitions, and served as concertmaster of the American Youth Philharmonic under Maestro Haza. She later completed Suzuki Teacher Training with Ronda Cole, including Every Child Can!

At Elevate Strings Studio, Hannah specializes in working with students who are ready to go beyond the limitations of traditional school programs. Her students don’t just learn how to play—they develop discipline, confidence, and a clear sense of musical identity. Many remain with her for years, refining their skills and progressing far beyond the classroom—often continuing their musical journey at a pre-professional level, with the option to pursue performance degrees at top conservatories.

Her teaching philosophy is simple: music is not just a skill, but a way of thinking, feeling, and expressing. Through a highly personalized and engaging approach, she helps each student unlock their full potential—both as musicians and as individuals.

“With the right sequence of notes, music has the power to mend the soul.”