“The nurturing and mentoring of Young Artists poised to embark on a musical career is a great joy for me. In this exchange I find an inspiration unlike any other I’ve experienced in life, as for me, the discovery of how to deepen ones insight as to how we approach great works of art is akin to searching deeply for meaning in human nature.

My teaching philosophy is based on individualism, founded in the belief that each young musician possesses their own voice and has a unique potential to fulfill. This process is structured with a clearly defined focus on three levels of engagement; the Art of Cello Playing, the Art of Interpretation and Musicianship, and Communication of Musical Ideas and Expressions. When the Art of Cello Playing is clearly understood, founded in sound logic, the Art of Interpretation and Musicianship is allowed to flourish, serving the Communication of Musical Ideas and Expressions. I have found this approach to teaching successful in helping aspiring Artists overcome challenges related to physically approaching the instrument, the inquisitive interpretation of musical language, and an effective psychological approach to overcoming performance anxiety.

Founded in my exposure to a wide variety of traditions, including those of Leonard Rose, Paul Tortelier, Gregor Piatigorsky and Janos Starker, I utilise the groundwork offered in this knowledge to carry my cello playing and pedagogy into the 21st Century, with an adaptive approach to absorbing new musical and pedagogical concepts, blending them with the foundations of these traditions.

I’m very proud to have led my students to National and International Competition success in Canada, the USA and Korea, and continued education at some of the worlds finest schools, including the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia, Colburn School of Music in Los Angeles, the Hans Eisler Hochschule für Musik in Berlin, the Faculty of Music at the University of Toronto, the Schulich School of Music at McGill University in Montreal and the Harvard University Faculty of Arts and Sciences in Boston.

Students and Young Professionals that wish to work together in intense Chamber Music and Private Lesson sessions, can apply to study at the Zodiac Music Academy and Festival in the South of France.

For private study and chamber music coaching in my studio based in Nürnberg, Germany, contact me by e-mail @ ariel.barnes@gmail.com.”