Featuring a first-rate faculty, strong chamber music and orchestral programs, and frequent performance opportunities, the string program at the Conservatory of the University of the Pacific is committed to preparing students for a successful career in music.
Private lessons
Student-centered learning is a vital characteristic of the string program. By recognizing that every student is unique and requires an individualized approach, each applied faculty member adapts his or her teaching methods to meet the student's needs. In addition, the applied faculty members have a holistic approach to teaching, helping their students develop both technically and musically. Through weekly private lessons, students develop invaluable problem-solving skills that enable them to identify and subsequently solve problem areas in their playing.
Ensembles
As members of the University of the Pacific Symphony Orchestra, all string students perform orchestral repertoire ranging in style from Classical and Romantic master works to exciting world premieres.
String performance majors and other interested string players cultivate their collaborative skills through participation in the chamber music program. During their time at Pacific, these students play in a wide variety of ensembles, allowing them to learn the intricacies of working with pianists, winds, brass, and other string players.
Performance program
Students in the performance program are held to the highest level of achievement on their instruments. The program offers juniors and seniors the unique opportunity to receive two hours of private instruction per week, as opposed to only one hour per week, which is the custom at most institutions. This extra hour is vital to preparing the students for their degree recitals and graduate school auditions. During their freshman and sophomore years, performance majors receive one hour of private lessons per week.
Other majors
Many students are studying music education, music therapy, music management, or composition with a string instrument as their primary instrument. Based on the students' goals and abilities, the applied teachers tailor the private instruction to provide the students with the skills that will be most helpful as they continue their careers beyond Pacific.
Double Majors
Many students love performing but are interested in another area as well, such as music education, therapy, management, composition, or other academic subject. Many Pacific students choose to double major, thereby fulfilling their desire to study both. Many double majors require at least an extra year of study.
Performances
Students gain fundamental performance experience through Conservatory-wide solo classes, regular orchestra concerts, chamber music performances, and degree recitals (performance and education majors). Faculty members and the Trio 180 inspire the students by performing recitals regularly.
Music Performance, Strings, Faculty
Ann Miller
Associate Professor of Violin, Program Director for Strings
Igor Veligan
Assistant Professor of Practice in Viola and Violin
Vicky Wang
Assistant Professor of Practice in Cello
Thomas Derthick
Assistant Professor of Practice in Double Bass and Chamber Music