“Debbie is, by far, the best cello teacher that we have ever had for our children (or my wife for herself when she was younger)! Debbie combines superb methodological rigor with warm pedagogical talent and kindness. Our children of different ages have all thrived and made amazing progress under her instruction. We are very sad to see her go!”
– From a parent
“I have learned so much from Debbie. She’s zeroed in on areas of my technique that needed improvement and my playing is better for it. My left hand is more relaxed and more accurate. Bowing is better, too — I play with more articulation, can play fast passages with more ease and confidence and melodic passages more musically. I practice more effectively. For an adult amateur looking for a teacher, Debbie has that wonderful combination you hope for–she’s helped me recognize my strengths and challenged me in areas that need help and growth.”
– From an adult student
“Yesterday Elizabeth and I were looking over the information about the new teacher you’ve recommended to take your place after you move. I remarked that it seemed like she could be a good teacher for Elizabeth. Elizabeth glumly replied, ‘No one could be as good a teacher as Debbie.’ I know she’s really going to miss you!”
– From a parent
“I have studied with several teachers throughout my music education, and I consider my time with Ms. Davis to have been by far the most effective and rewarding. I am currently pursuing a cello performance degree, a path I would not have been able to take without Ms. Davis’ devoted instruction and interest in my artistic development.”
– From a former student now in college
“Ms. Davis has, over time, taught Iain accountability, problem solving skills, a well-grounded perspective in playing and has shared invaluable insight from her decades of performing.
She has increased Iain’s love of music, and helped him achieve a solid level of musicianship that is obvious to everyone who hears him play. Iain as well as the both of us will truly miss Ms. Davis, and we all agree that any prospective student who has the opportunity to study with her will be most fortunate to learn from one of the best performers and cello instructors available today.”
– From a parent
“In my five years of study with Debbie, she took a grown adult who had never picked up the instrument and helped me develop the early skills of a cellist while also deepening my love for the music the instrument can create. As a teacher myself, I have also been keenly aware of Debbie’s teaching techniques and appreciate the ways in which she communicates not only the simple technical skills but also her passion for the music-making.”
– From an adult student
“When I was in 4th grade and first started to play the cello, I couldn’t play more than 2 notes in a row. During my 3 years with Debbie, she has helped me become a better cello player by teaching me timing, fingerings, and dynamics. I also like that she teaches me music theory so I learn more about music. Debbie will help you learn how to practice so you are using your time well. One of the best things about taking lessons with Debbie is that she gives you opportunities to play in performances and concerts outside of school.”
– From a student
“Having my son take lessons with Debbie has improved more than just his cello playing. He has been able to use Debbie’s advice and practice techniques with his academics and other activities. It has been nice to see him improve and enjoy playing the cello. I love that Debbie provides the students with opportunities to perform beyond their school’s orchestras. She will be sadly missed when she moves.”
– From a parent
“I have studied with Ms. Davis for three years. Her emphasis on technique and musicianship have definitely improved my skills as a cellist. With Ms. Davis you will not only grow as a cellist but as an individual.”
– From a 9th grade student
“Debbie Davis is an excellent cello teacher, one of the absolute best. Having our son study with her for the past eight years, we couldn’t be more pleased with the fine cellist that he has become today. He has played at our church accompanying the choirs, played at weddings, in pit orchestras for school musicals, as well as his school orchestra, district and regional orchestra and the Young People’s Philharmonic of the Lehigh Valley. He is always complimented on his playing ability and style. She has taught him ways to practice effectively, and in my son’s words “her fervent yet nurturing teaching style is surely one that creates competent, well-versed cellists.” We feel very fortunate to have had Debbie as our son’s teacher over the years. He wouldn’t be where is today or have come as far as he has without her strong teaching skills and personal playing ability. We have heard her perform both as a soloist and within ensembles, and she is just one of the best.
Debbie values her students, teaches them well, and supports them in all that they participate in. She helps each student to be the best that they can be no matter what age or reason for learning how to play the cello – whether they’ll end up merely playing for fun or becoming a professional.”
– From a parent
“Ms. Davis teaches in both a relaxed and professional manner. Her many analogies help build technique and musicality as they help you remember what has been taught during the lesson. I have so enjoyed my instruction with Ms. Davis, I wish I could have started sooner.”
– From an 11th grade student
“I’d like to thank you for all that you’ve done to help make Nicholas so successful in the high school musical program. He has been first chair cello for three out of his four years in high school. At our large high school, having a place in the music program is life changing. Nick has really been an outstanding success and he truly is thriving with the abundance of opportunities for growth that playing the cello has provided him. I wanted to share with you how much it has meant to him to have such solid training from you.
For my husband and me, our son studying cello has also enlightened us in numerous ways. I’ve told you before perhaps, I am a music appreciator but with limited ability and knowledge. I can’t tell you how thankful we are to have found you for Nick’s purposes but also (selfishly) for our own.”
– From a parent
“My name is Philip H… I am twelve years old. For the past four years I have been studying cello with Ms. Debbie Davis. She is one of the best cello teachers around. She offers a good balance of discipline and respect. I hope some of you experience the wonderful world of cello with Ms. Davis.”
– From a student