Cello Lessons
Welcome, Parents and Students!
I am accepting new students in Summer 2025. For information about cello lessons for your child or yourself, please contact me through the contact form of this site. Or for more information about my teaching, please visit my teaching website.
I have been teaching cello and ensembles in the Bay Area for over 15 years. In addition to my private studio in San Francisco, I am Artistic Director of the Pacific Crest Music Festival in Dunsmuir, CA and am faculty cellist for Chamber Music by the Bay, an educational outreach program that reaches over 2000 music students annually. I also founded and directed the String Quartet Program at the Thomas Hart School in Pleasanton from 2016-2020.
In my experience, a successful learning experience is one that:
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helps the student reach his or her full potential
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focuses on healthy technique, with mindful awareness of one's body and the physical connection with the instrument
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prepares the student for positive experiences on and off the stage, nurtures his or her identity as an artist, and instills a philosophy of leadership as a contributing musician citizen
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instills a life-long appreciation and understanding of the diverse languages of music
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is a source of joy and challenge—not discouragement or burnout.
An education in music is a life-long journey that constantly evolves. With a good technical foundation and a strong spirit, cello can become a space not only to achieve artistically but to grow as a human being.
Testimonials
"I cannot speak highly enough of Ms. Gaynon. My son studied under her from ages 9 to 13, and it was a transformative experience. Ms. Gaynon not only fostered his love for cello playing but also sparked his passion for understanding the musical history and theory. As a result, his enthusiasm for the cello has flourished, and he now aspires to make it a lifelong pursuit.
What makes Ms. Gaynon truly special is her ability to inspire without pressure. We never had to push our son to practice because he was genuinely motivated to improve and excel under Ms Gaynon's tutelage. He just told us that "I really like playing cello." His dedication even led him to join the precollege program at SFCM. It's a testament to Ms. Gaynon's exceptional teaching and her calm and cheerful demeanor.
Ms. Gaynon is more than a cello teacher; she is a true mentor who has profoundly influenced our son's musical journey. He sought her advice on everything related to music and learning. I am forever grateful for the impact Ms. Gaynon has had on his life and musical aspirations."
— B.H., Parent
"I started taking lessons from Laura upon the recommendation of staff at the SF Conservatory and my previous cello teacher. Her lessons are always engaging; we work, we laugh, and I learn a ton. Laura is responsive to my individual needs and goals. She knows when to push and when to give me time to develop. I appreciate the respect Laura has for me as a musician. In the year I've been taking lessons with her, I have made significant growth. I know this is due in no small part to the care and support, deep knowledge, and skill that Laura brings to her lessons. Laura is an accomplished and dedicated musician and teacher. I am so happy to be working with her."
— Nobie Camarena, student