Cellist & Educator
Anne Blake
NYC-based cellist Anne Blake is an experienced musician, private teacher and performer.
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Bio
New York City based cellist Anne Blake is a passionate performer known for her adaptability and unique sound. Recent recordings include work with Little Moon, Gavin McMahan, and Johanna Jones. Anne has been a featured soloist and orchestral musician at venues such as Smetana Hall in Prague, University of Salzburg's Aula Hall, and at the Royal Palace of Caserta for a UNICEF benefit concert. Anne was recently chosen as the cello soloist for the Orchestra at Temple Hill's production of the oratorio "Lamb of God", which featured five performances across the Bay Area.
Anne holds a Master's degree from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music. During her time at the conservatory, she was an integral part of the orchestra and was an avid chamber musician. While attending school, Anne founded a cello program at the Myriad School of Music in the Bay Area. She successfully brought in students and created a comprehensive cello curriculum for the school. During her undergraduate years she managed a thriving cello studio of over fifteen students ages 4–15.
Anne was the principal cellist of the Brigham Young University Philharmonic and Chamber Orchestras and had the opportunity to travel across Europe performing with the orchestra in various venues in Austria, Italy and the Czech Republic. While on tour she was the principal cellist and soloist for Ginastera's Variaciones Concertantes. This tour also included community outreach opportunities, like meeting with Ukrainian Refugees and performing for and meeting Italian ambassadors. Her studies also took her abroad for a semester in Italy, where she performed and studied with the Conservatory De Milan orchestra. Anne was the cellist of the BYU Honors Quartet, where she was responsible for putting on concerts for the community.
Anne's primary teachers include Jennifer Culp, Michelle Kesler and Kari Caldwell. She has played in masterclasses for world-class musicians such as Steven Isserlis, Michael Tilson Thomas, Richard Aaron and Rosemary Elliott.
Education
Master of Music — San Francisco Conservatory of Music
Bachelor of Music — Brigham Young University
Semester Abroad — Conservatorio De Milan
Teachers
Jennifer Culp · Michelle Kesler · Kari Caldwell
Masterclass Instructors
Steven Isserlis · Michael Tilson Thomas
Richard Aaron · Rosemary Elliott
Teaching Philosophy
Studio Information
I firmly believe that children are exceptionally bright and capable, and that music education helps them become the best version of themselves.
Music develops fine motor skills, discipline, and perseverance in young learners. I prioritize proper technique and ergonomics from the very start — posture, foot placement, and bow hold — and structure practice sessions to move through scales, etudes, and pieces for well-rounded musical development.
It is essential for students to learn to love music and recognize it as a blessing. I tailor each lesson to the individual student's learning style, and I believe success depends on the collaboration between students, parents, and teachers — with consistency, open-mindedness, and a willingness to face challenges.
FAQ
I accept students from age four through adults. Early starters benefit greatly from the Suzuki approach, which builds technique and musicality through listening and imitation before introducing music reading.
I am Suzuki certified and use the Suzuki repertoire books alongside I Can Read Music for beginners. As students advance, I incorporate supplemental materials including Solos for Young Cellists and Position Pieces for Cello.
Young beginners require a parent or caregiver to be present at lessons. Students must arrive prepared — parental involvement at home significantly accelerates learning. I reserve the right to terminate lessons if a student is consistently unprepared.
Lessons range from 30 minutes to one hour depending on the student's age and skill level. Younger beginners typically start with 30-minute sessions, while more advanced students benefit from 45 or 60 minutes.
Billing occurs monthly on the first of the month via Zelle or check. Cancellations within 24 hours of a scheduled lesson forfeit payment. In the event I need to cancel last-minute, you will receive a full refund or a makeup lesson.
Booking
Performances, recording, events & inquiries
Phone
(918) 841-5362Follow
@anneblakecellostudioSend a Message
Thank you!
Performances
2024
Lamb of God — Cello Soloist
Orchestra at Temple Hill · New York City
2024
Collaboration with Johanna Jones
Recording & Live Performance
2023
Little Moon Sessions
Studio Recording · New York City
2023
Gavin McMahan Collaboration
Live Performance & Recording
European Tour
BYU Philharmonic — European Tour
Prague · Salzburg · Vienna · Milan · Rome
Soloist
Ginastera: Variaciones Concertantes
BYU Philharmonic Orchestra