Discover the Art and Soul of Cello Mastery
Welcome to Boston Cello Academy
with Dr. Cherry Kim!
Having taught the cello and coached music for over 20 years,
I help students of all ages and levels build a solid foundation and develop mastery on the cello through deepening their understanding of the instrument, our body, and the language of music. I would be thrilled to embark on this musical journey with you, nurturing you into a passionate and dedicated musician for life. With a perfect blend of encouragement and challenge, I will provide personalized guidance to help you grow.
What is learning at BCA like?
Build Fundamentals for Success
Lessons are thoughtfully tailored to meet the individual needs, interests and goals of every student. I focus on developing strong fundamentals—from essential cello technique and solo repertoire to music theory and musicianship. Students learn about cello ergonomics to make playing both comfortable and enjoyable, and explore creative, effective approaches to practice.
Experience Chamber Music From The Start
Most music studios and lessons primarily focus on learning the only cello part. But most of the time, students play works that has piano or orchestral parts that accompany the cello part. Therefore, students get an incomplete picture and most of time never even get to experience the whole work. At BCA, students have the opportunity to play with piano accompaniment at every lesson. This allows them hear the work as a whole and get a deeper understanding of how the cello part fits. This is also a great way to develop ensemble skills from the very start. This is one of the things that make BCA unique because most music studios and teachers cannot offer this.
Get Guidance Between Lessons
Lessons take up one hour per week of the student’s time, but students can continue to receive guidance and support by sharing video or audio recordings outside their lesson times. I send personalized emails with practice tips, supplemental materials, and recordings from lessons as needed to help students stay motivated and make tangible progress between lessons.
Perform in Concerts
Studio concerts are great opportunities for students to gain confidence through actual performance experiences and test drive the pieces they have been working on.
Learn from Guest Masterclasses
Students have opportunities to play for guest masterclasses. World-renown cellist and pedagogue Terry King gave a masterclass.
Prepare for Auditions
BCA students have won auditions to participate in the Massachusetts District and State orchestras, New England Conservatory Preparatory programs, Boston Youth Symphony Orchestra, among others.
Enjoy Special Programs
Cello Ensembles
Music Theory
Ear Training
Musical Jeopardy
About Dr. Cherry Kim
I hold a Doctorate degree in cello performance from Boston University and other degrees from the New England Conservatory, Glenn Gould School of the Royal Conservatory of Music, and Rice University. I have taught at Lexington Chamber Music Center, Camp Encore/Coda, ArtsAhimsa Music Festival, Winchester Community Music School. I have coached cello students from the New England Conservatory Preparatory Orchestras, Brookline High School, Rice University, and Boston University, as well as be invited as a teaching artist for Boston and Brookline Public Schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
• What ages do you teach and what is the earliest age one can start learning the cello?
I teach all ages and levels. I have taught students as young as 3 years old and as old as adults in their 80s.
• What levels do you teach?
I teach all levels – beginner, intermediate, and advanced. I can guide students who are auditioning for colleges or competitions and can also teach a beginner acquire good foundation.
• Should I buy or rent a cello to start?
If you are just starting out, I recommend renting instead of buying for these reasons below:
- Buying can be tricky since pretty much all cellos (and bows) are different. A cello with a bad setup or made of cheap materials will be more of a liability and the cost of repairs can turn out to be more than the cost of the cello.
- Renting allows you to gain experience on the cello and taking care of it. If something happens, you are able to swap out at no additional cost to you.
• Which rental shops do you recommend?
More information can be found on the Resources page including rental shops in the area.
• How often should one sign up for lessons?
Weekly is best because students have more accountability to practice and more details can be covered. But busier students (often working adults) can sign up for bi-weekly lessons.
• Do you offer online lessons?
Yes. Lessons can be online if this is more convenient for you.
