VIOLA LESSONS IN LONGMONT
with Ariana Blevins
In-person viola lessons begin in August of 2025.
Ariana Blevins brings a lifetime of dedication and passion to the viola. Having started her musical journey on the violin as a child before finding her true voice on the viola, she's cultivated a distinguished career as both a performer and an educator. Ariana holds a Bachelor of Music, Master of Music, and Advanced Performance Certificate in Viola Performance from Carnegie Mellon University, where she studied under renowned violist David Harding. Her extensive performance background includes playing with numerous orchestras across the United States, such as the Erie Philharmonic and Charleston Symphony Orchestra. An accomplished chamber musician, Ariana was also a proud member of Carnegie Mellon's Honors Quartet and has showcased her solo artistry through her many recitals and her performance of Derek Bermel’s Soul Garden, with the Carnegie Mellon Contemporary Ensemble.
Ariana’s core philosophy is to empower students with the essential tools needed to play the viola with comfort, confidence, beautiful sound, and strong technique. Ariana's ultimate goal is for each student to perform any work they desire with profound musicality and authentic self-expression. Lessons are individually tailored to meet specific goals, whether it's preparing for auditions, refining technique, or exploring diverse repertoire. While fostering versatility, Ariana
integrates traditional exercises with varied viola pieces, often starting younger students with the Suzuki method before transitioning to standard repertoire. Ariana creates a supportive and encouraging learning environment. Students are consistently challenged to play at their best, receiving hands-on advice and frequent demonstrations to practically solve issues in their playing. She openly discusses the viola's unique characteristics and challenges, guiding students to unlock its rich sound.
Students of all ages and levels are welcome into the studio. All instruction is delivered through personalized, one-on-one private lessons. Ariana has a proven track record, successfully preparing students for auditions into high school, regional, college orchestras, and even musical theatre pit orchestras. Lessons are flexible, offered virtually via Zoom or in-person at Ariana's home studio in Longmont, Colorado. Lesson durations are typically 60 minutes, with shorter options available as well.