Therrell Cello Studio Highlights

A thriving studio of 35+ cellists growing through performance, community, and joyful musicianship.

All-State & Competitive Success

Several of our school-aged students have earned top scores at the Wisconsin Solo & Ensemble Festival, one of the state’s most respected music assessments.

Many students also perform with the Wisconsin Youth Symphony Orchestra, gaining advanced ensemble experience at a pre-professional level.

Performance Culture

Our studio places a strong emphasis on regular, meaningful performance opportunities:

• Over 20 students performed at each of our Spring 2025, Fall 2025, and Spring 2026 recitals

• Two full studio recitals are held each year

• Every recital is designed to build confidence, community, and artistic growth

Studio Community & Demographics

Our studio includes 35+ cellists spanning all ages and experience levels, from beginners to advanced players, young children to adult learners.

Nearly 50% of our studio are adult students, making Therrell Cello Studio a rare space where:

• Returning musicians rediscover their instrument

• Adults begin cello for the first time

• Young students learn alongside lifelong learners

• From “white belt to black belt 10th degree,” every cellist has a place here.

Career & Pre-Professional Pathways

Students from the studio have continued into highly competitive music programs, including:

• Admission to the Berklee College of Music for Music Therapy

• Ongoing study in cello at the University of Wisconsin–Madison

• Admission to the University of North Carolina School of the Arts High School Program

These outcomes reflect a studio culture that supports both professional pathways and personal artistic growth.

Community Engagement

Our students are active contributors to the broader musical community, performing in:

• Middleton Community Orchestra

• Verona Community Orchestra

• Janesville Community Orchestra

This ensures students are not only practicing music—but living it in real ensembles with real audiences.

Studio Creativity & Fun

Learning here is serious—but never rigid.

A highlight of our studio culture includes creative projects such as:

• A custom-arranged Frozen medley (“Elsa & Anna”) created by Dr. Ben Therrell for adult students

These projects celebrate what makes music meaningful: imagination, joy, and shared experience.