Teaching Philosophy

My approach to music is substantially shaped by my dear teachers who combined technical mastery with deep artistic imagination. With this mission, I aim to pass on the same qualities to my students: dedication, curiosity, and a passion for exploring music beyond the notes. In lessons, I encourage students to discover their own narrative in each piece and apply technique intentionally to bring that story to life. We explore phrasing, style, and character through imagery, discussion, and vocalization, helping students feel the natural flow and energy of the music.

Interested in Lessons?

Interested in Lessons?

I work with students of all backgrounds and levels. Whether you are taking cello as a hobby or preparing for college auditions, I tailor each lesson to your individual goals and make learning the cello fun and engaging.

Currently, I offer both online and in-person lessons. My studio is based in Tallahassee, FL, with in-home lessons available for an additional travel fee. Send me a text or an email and we will discuss what option works best for you!

“Thu has been one of the most constructive teachers I have ever had. In the past I have had teachers that feared giving me criticism for fear of hurting my feelings, but Thu is incredibly skilled at pointing out things that could be improved upon and explaining them in a direct, but respectful way. Her mastery of the instrument is truly inspirational, and her guidance has made me a better player than when I started with her. ”

Grant Hickscello student

“I had the privilege of having Thu as my cello instructor for a semester in college and I truly can't recommend her enough! I felt a huge improvement in my playing, especially thanks to her incredible ability to thoroughly break down, explain, and demonstrate techniques in a way that makes them easy to apply. Her feedback is always honest, but delivered in a very encouraging way that showcases just how much she cares about your improvement. The cherry on top is her great sense of humor which makes the learning environment both comfortable and fun!”

Jeena Batallancello student

“Thu has been one of the most constructive teachers I have ever had. In the past I have had teachers that feared giving me criticism for fear of hurting my feelings, but Thu is incredibly skilled at pointing out things that could be improved upon and explaining them in a direct, but respectful way. Her mastery of the instrument is truly inspirational, and her guidance has made me a better player than when I started with her. ”

Grant Hickscello student

“I had the privilege of having Thu as my cello instructor for a semester in college and I truly can't recommend her enough! I felt a huge improvement in my playing, especially thanks to her incredible ability to thoroughly break down, explain, and demonstrate techniques in a way that makes them easy to apply. Her feedback is always honest, but delivered in a very encouraging way that showcases just how much she cares about your improvement. The cherry on top is her great sense of humor which makes the learning environment both comfortable and fun!”

Jeena Batallancello student

“Thu has been one of the most constructive teachers I have ever had. In the past I have had teachers that feared giving me criticism for fear of hurting my feelings, but Thu is incredibly skilled at pointing out things that could be improved upon and explaining them in a direct, but respectful way. Her mastery of the instrument is truly inspirational, and her guidance has made me a better player than when I started with her. ”

Grant Hickscello student

“I had the privilege of having Thu as my cello instructor for a semester in college and I truly can't recommend her enough! I felt a huge improvement in my playing, especially thanks to her incredible ability to thoroughly break down, explain, and demonstrate techniques in a way that makes them easy to apply. Her feedback is always honest, but delivered in a very encouraging way that showcases just how much she cares about your improvement. The cherry on top is her great sense of humor which makes the learning environment both comfortable and fun!”

Jeena Batallancello student

“Thu has been one of the most constructive teachers I have ever had. In the past I have had teachers that feared giving me criticism for fear of hurting my feelings, but Thu is incredibly skilled at pointing out things that could be improved upon and explaining them in a direct, but respectful way. Her mastery of the instrument is truly inspirational, and her guidance has made me a better player than when I started with her. ”

Grant Hickscello student

“I had the privilege of having Thu as my cello instructor for a semester in college and I truly can't recommend her enough! I felt a huge improvement in my playing, especially thanks to her incredible ability to thoroughly break down, explain, and demonstrate techniques in a way that makes them easy to apply. Her feedback is always honest, but delivered in a very encouraging way that showcases just how much she cares about your improvement. The cherry on top is her great sense of humor which makes the learning environment both comfortable and fun!”

Jeena Batallancello student

“Thu has been one of the most constructive teachers I have ever had. In the past I have had teachers that feared giving me criticism for fear of hurting my feelings, but Thu is incredibly skilled at pointing out things that could be improved upon and explaining them in a direct, but respectful way. Her mastery of the instrument is truly inspirational, and her guidance has made me a better player than when I started with her. ”

Grant Hickscello student

“I had the privilege of having Thu as my cello instructor for a semester in college and I truly can't recommend her enough! I felt a huge improvement in my playing, especially thanks to her incredible ability to thoroughly break down, explain, and demonstrate techniques in a way that makes them easy to apply. Her feedback is always honest, but delivered in a very encouraging way that showcases just how much she cares about your improvement. The cherry on top is her great sense of humor which makes the learning environment both comfortable and fun!”

Jeena Batallancello student

“Thu has been one of the most constructive teachers I have ever had. In the past I have had teachers that feared giving me criticism for fear of hurting my feelings, but Thu is incredibly skilled at pointing out things that could be improved upon and explaining them in a direct, but respectful way. Her mastery of the instrument is truly inspirational, and her guidance has made me a better player than when I started with her. ”

Grant Hickscello student

“I had the privilege of having Thu as my cello instructor for a semester in college and I truly can't recommend her enough! I felt a huge improvement in my playing, especially thanks to her incredible ability to thoroughly break down, explain, and demonstrate techniques in a way that makes them easy to apply. Her feedback is always honest, but delivered in a very encouraging way that showcases just how much she cares about your improvement. The cherry on top is her great sense of humor which makes the learning environment both comfortable and fun!”

Jeena Batallancello student

“Thu has been one of the most constructive teachers I have ever had. In the past I have had teachers that feared giving me criticism for fear of hurting my feelings, but Thu is incredibly skilled at pointing out things that could be improved upon and explaining them in a direct, but respectful way. Her mastery of the instrument is truly inspirational, and her guidance has made me a better player than when I started with her. ”

Grant Hickscello student

“I had the privilege of having Thu as my cello instructor for a semester in college and I truly can't recommend her enough! I felt a huge improvement in my playing, especially thanks to her incredible ability to thoroughly break down, explain, and demonstrate techniques in a way that makes them easy to apply. Her feedback is always honest, but delivered in a very encouraging way that showcases just how much she cares about your improvement. The cherry on top is her great sense of humor which makes the learning environment both comfortable and fun!”

Jeena Batallancello student

“Thu has been one of the most constructive teachers I have ever had. In the past I have had teachers that feared giving me criticism for fear of hurting my feelings, but Thu is incredibly skilled at pointing out things that could be improved upon and explaining them in a direct, but respectful way. Her mastery of the instrument is truly inspirational, and her guidance has made me a better player than when I started with her. ”

Grant Hickscello student

“I had the privilege of having Thu as my cello instructor for a semester in college and I truly can't recommend her enough! I felt a huge improvement in my playing, especially thanks to her incredible ability to thoroughly break down, explain, and demonstrate techniques in a way that makes them easy to apply. Her feedback is always honest, but delivered in a very encouraging way that showcases just how much she cares about your improvement. The cherry on top is her great sense of humor which makes the learning environment both comfortable and fun!”

Jeena Batallancello student

“Thu has been one of the most constructive teachers I have ever had. In the past I have had teachers that feared giving me criticism for fear of hurting my feelings, but Thu is incredibly skilled at pointing out things that could be improved upon and explaining them in a direct, but respectful way. Her mastery of the instrument is truly inspirational, and her guidance has made me a better player than when I started with her. ”

Grant Hickscello student

“I had the privilege of having Thu as my cello instructor for a semester in college and I truly can't recommend her enough! I felt a huge improvement in my playing, especially thanks to her incredible ability to thoroughly break down, explain, and demonstrate techniques in a way that makes them easy to apply. Her feedback is always honest, but delivered in a very encouraging way that showcases just how much she cares about your improvement. The cherry on top is her great sense of humor which makes the learning environment both comfortable and fun!”

Jeena Batallancello student