STRINGED INSTRUMENTS

The String Division is dedicated to creating well-rounded musicians with strong instrumental, ensemble and pedagogical skills.   

Students study privately with faculty who have trained at some of the finest music schools in the country, including principal players in the San Diego Symphony and noted chamber musicians.  The faculty work closely with their students to ensure steady progression on their instrument throughout their time at SDSU.  Frequent master classes with guest artists ensure students experience a breadth of musical opinions. 

Students develop their ensemble skills in the Symphony and Opera Theater Orchestras as well as smaller mixed ensembles.  Those with an interest in chamber music have the opportunity to coach extensively with the Hausmann Quartet, Artists-in-Residence at SDSU.  String Area recitals occur several times each semester, giving students opportunities to perform solo or in small ensembles on a regular basis.

Recognizing the importance of strong teaching, students have the opportunity to serve as student assistants in the Community Music School’s String Academy.  Through this program they receive mentorship in string pedagogy in both the private lesson and group class setting, gaining a solid foundation in teaching.

Faculty

• Pei-Chun Tsai, violin
• Chi-Yuan Chen, viola
• Travis Maril, viola
• Yao Zhao, cello
• Jeremy Kurtz-Harris, double bass
• Elena Mashkovtseva, harp
• Sean Bassett, classical guitar
• Fred Benedetti, classical guitar
• Robert Wetzel, classical guitar
• Hausmann Quartet

Information for Stringed Instrument Auditions

• An entrance audition is required for admittance to all performance degree programs.
• Placement exams are required for all incoming and transfer students.

Contact Information:

Travis Maril, Stringed Instruments Coordinator
tmaril@mail.sdsu.edu
619-594-6031