Interested in seeing if the studio is a good fit?
Tailored for passionate students as well as well as adult learners
Explore downloadable resources to support practice and musical growth.
Meet Shelley
I offer high-level violin instruction for students of all ages—whether you're just beginning your journey or returning to the violin after time away. Lessons are held in my Bethesda studio, conveniently located near the Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro.
I specialize in helping passionate beginners, motivated teens, and adult learners develop confidence, clarity, and deep musical understanding through personalized, thoughtful teaching.
Violinist Shelley Mathews performs in orchestral, chamber, and opera orchestra settings. She currently resides in the Washington D.C. metro area and performs with ensembles including National Philharmonic, Washington Concert Opera, and holds a section Violin position in the Sarasota Opera Orchestra. She has also performed in arena settings with Rod Stewart, The Who, Game of Thrones, and has appeared on NPR's Tiny Desk Series.
LESSON PACKAGES
BUNDLE OF 6
In-person, virtual, or hybrid
Option to renew pending availability
45 min. $468
60 min. $600
BUNDLE OF 8
In-person, virtual, or hybrid
Option to renew pending availability
45 min. $624
60 min. $800
AUDITION READY
In-person, virtual, or hybrid
Keep your current teacher
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Additional help with Youth Orchestra auditions and audition recordings
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Three lessons $320
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What I listen for in student competitions and auditions - blogpost
Interested in seeing if the studio is a good fit?
Studio enrollment is limited to maintain the quality of instruction and personal attention for each student. New students are accepted based on alignment with the studio's values and teaching approach.
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Students may be accepted mid-year if space allows. If there are no current openings, you're welcome to join the waitlist - I will reach out as soon as a spot becomes available.
STUDIO ACCOLADES
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Orchestra Participation: MCYO, PVYO, All-State (many in principal roles)
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Competitions: Potter, ASTA/MSMTA, National Symphony Concerto Comp., etc.
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Summer Programs: NSO SMI, Brevard, Sphinx, etc.
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College Acceptances (for performance majors): Eastman, UMBC, UMD, SMU, Vanderbilt (Blair)
TEACHER AFFILIATIONS
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ASTA MD/DC Chapter
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Chair, Jack Weaver Memorial Competition (2010–2013)
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Violin sectional coach: MCYO, Prelude Youth Orchestra
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Chamber music coach: MCYO & Prelude
Teaching Philosophy
Teaching concepts and techniques relevant to where you are musically and in life.
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This approach allows each student to grow at their own pace with purpose and musicality.
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Location: Bethesda, MD near Strathmore Hall (Grosvenor-Strathmore Metro)
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I teach using a traditional foundation: scales, etudes, and technical work designed to support artistry.
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Some Suzuki materials are incorporated where appropriate.
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The core goal is a healthy, confident approach to the instrument that grows with each student.
Interested in seeing if the studio is a good fit?
Explore downloadable resources to support practice and musical growth.
