Laura Gamboa (she/her/hers)
is a Colombian American violinist, educator, and scholar. Gamboa began her violin studies at age four with Dr. Kari Gunderson, co-founder of the Suzuki Association of Ohio. She is currently pursuing her doctoral degree in violin performance at the University of Southern California under Martin Chalifour, concertmaster of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Gamboa received her bachelor’s degrees in violin performance and music theory as well as a minor in Eurhythmics (the study of rhythm) from the Cleveland Institute of Music. Afterward, she completed her Master’s Degree in Violin Performance as a fellowship recipient from the University of Michigan, where she also completed a specialist degree in violin performance and a master’s degree in chamber music. At USC, she studies chamber music with Kevin Fitz-Gerald, professor of keyboard collaborative arts, jazz violin with Professor David Arnay, and viola with Professor Karen Dreyfus. Gamboa is certified in the Suzuki violin method and is a teaching instructor for the USC music minor program.
TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
Gamboa is an experienced teacher and has enjoyed teaching students of all ages and skill levels. She has led sectionals for the Michigan Youth Orchestra and is Suzuki certified from books 1-4; Gamboa is currently a teaching assistant at the University of Southern California.
Studies show positive reinforcement is one of the best ways to stimulate learning in young children;
Gamboa believes in fostering a warm and playful environment for her younger students. As a teacher of adults and adolescents, Gamboa strives to address practice techniques and mental wellness; with a student’s consent, each lesson can be a safe space to explore an individual student’s technical and artistic needs.
Gamboa adapts her teaching to each student’s learning style, interests, and physicality. The practice room is a science lab; it is a place to experiment and find what works best. Gamboa’s goal is to inspire her students to think critically in their practice, and ultimately enjoy communicating on stage.
Please use the Contact form to inquire about lessons.
LESSONS
Private Lessons
I am available to teach private lessons over Zoom, or in person if you are in the Los Angeles area.
Practice Coach
Progress is not linear; sometimes we reach a plateau in our practice and need another set of ears to introduce new ideas. Together we can work on a customized practice routine to help you play with ease and awareness. Technical exercises such as scales and etudes can help students overcome specific difficulties. Meditation and anxiety-reducing methods can make performance more enjoyable.
Music Theory / Musicology Tutor
As a doctoral student, I have over four years of experience tutoring music theory and aural skills to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students. I also have over nine years of experience writing successful academic essays. I am available if you need someone to help you proofread your writing and to provide feedback.
Consultations
I offer free 30/45-minute consultations that consist of a trial lesson and a discussion of what your particular needs are. Please use the contact form and I will get back to you as soon as possible!
CONTACT
