Astrid N. — Violin Teacher — Riverdale, Toronto

Canadian violinist Astrid Nakamura is regarded for her bold sound and deeply empathetic artistry. She is a recipient of the 2024 Sylva Gelber Music Foundation Award, and was featured as one of CBC’s “30 Canadian classical musicians under 30” that same year. Recent endeavours include a fellowship at the Royal Conservatory of Music, a featured solo performance and upcoming recording project with the ARC Ensemble, and performing as second violin with the Dior Quartet. Astrid completed her master’s degree at Rice University in 2024 under Kathleen Winkler, supported by the Dorothy Richard Starling Foundation. Astrid is currently based in Toronto, where she enjoys running and making jewelry. For more information, visit astridnakamura.com

The most important part of my teaching is that it is about YOU, the student. Lessons will go towards crafting musicality and shaping technique to best exemplify the passions and goals of the student. I aim to create a learning environment that illuminates ways for the student to extend their limbs far out of the box, never crammed or molded into any constraints. As the teacher, I am simply someone to help guide you towards the best version of yourself. Within the time we have together for lessons, I celebrate students’ individuality and creativity while leading them towards their desired result. My principles involve setting intentions, empowering creative thought, and fostering a genuine love and respect for the violin. Lessons will involve a 1:1 ratio of violin playing and discussions; being able to voice ideas, reflect upon the music, and have rapport are deeply important to my teaching. In addition, students are encouraged to consistently think outside the box. I teach the RCM curriculum up to ARCT level. I also include a Suzuki approach for teaching younger students, with a 70/30 approach to technique/repertoire. Older/more experienced students will have a more repertoire-based curriculum. I do NOT use generative AI to build my lesson plans. With the immeasurable opportunities music brings to people, I aim to be a teacher that showcases the restorative and life-changing ability of the violin, and what it can offer to students.