About Me
Samantha is an optimistic, motivated, and dedicated individual. Originally from Falls Church, Virginia.
Freelancing in the Chicagoland metropolitan area, Samantha earned her Master of Music degree at DePaul University, studying with the former Associate Principle of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, Ann Marie Brink. Samantha holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Viola Performance from the University of North Texas studying viola with Daphne Gerling and Susan Dubois. Her fundamental playing technique is rooted in Karen Tuttle coordination (similar to Alexander Technique) and she is committed to furthering her knowledge and passing on these techniques to the next generation of musicians. She has performed orchestral, chamber, and solo music in Japan and all over the U.S. in Virginia, Texas, North Carolina, and in the beautiful mountains of Vermont at various music festivals. After eighteen years of study, Samantha still loves the rich, dark chocolate sound the viola offers, and continues to explore it. She loves performing in large orchestras, small chamber groups, and as a soloist. Her repertoire ranges from as early as the 1600s to the late 1900s. She has performed extensively with many great ensembles including the National Orchestral Institute (2019) and the University of North Texas Symphony Orchestra (2016-18). When she is not playing her viola, Samantha can be found at the nearest rock climbing wall cheering on fellow climbers! EDUCATION
DePaul University – Master of Music in Viola Performance (2021) University of North Texas – Bachelor of Music in Viola Performance (2018) Suzuki Violin/Viola Units 1-3 Vera McCoy-Sulentic - Units 2-3 (July 2023) Jenna Potts - Unit 1 (Jan 2023) Nancy Modell - Every Child Can! (Nov 2022) EXPERIENCE / SKILLS
Civic Orchestra of Chicago, Associate Member (2020-2021) National Orchestral Institute (2019) UNT Symphony Orchestra (2016-18) Texas Music Festival Orchestra (2016, 2017) Merit School of Music, active faculty of violin/viola (May 2023) Music House, violin teacher (Jan 2023) South Side Suzuki Cooperative, sub violin instructor (Oct 2022-2023) AWARDS / RECOGNITION
Northern Virginia Community College music competition first place, 2015 Bach & Baroque Competition winner, 2014 |