Christina Knoll

With over 25 years of teaching and performance experience, I am passionate about fostering musical growth and personal development through violin and string education. I hold a Master of Music in Violin Performance from the prestigious Rotterdam Conservatory (2001) and a Bachelor of Music from the Sweelinck Conservatory in Amsterdam (1999). Throughout my academic journey, I’ve had the opportunity to study with renowned violinists and pedagogues, including those with connections to the great Ivan Galamian and Ivry Gitlis.

I have a rich professional performance background, having played with the Metropole Orchestra at the Jazz Sea Festival, the BBC Proms, and toured through Europe. I have also recorded with Snarky Puppy and Jacob Collier, recordings that were awarded two Grammy Awards. My radio appearances include performances with major orchestras in the Netherlands, including the Filharmonisch Orkest, Het Brabants Orkest, Radio Symfonie Orkest, and Holland Symfonia/Balletorkest.

Additionally, I’ve participated in dance and theatre performances with T.R.A.S.H. (2007–2009), Bencha Theater (2005–2007), and De Daders (1995–2000).

My teaching experience spans multiple institutions, including Haarlem Koorschool(2020-2024), and  Muziekschool Zuid-Kennemerland(2002-2013), where I taught both violin and viola. I also run my own private teaching studio, offering individual and group lessons, and I coach string quartets. In addition, I’ve provided ensemble coaching for several string enembles including at St Anne’s Diocesan College in KwaZulu-Natal, where I currently teach.

I am committed to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment where students of all ages and abilities can thrive, whether they are pursuing music professionally or simply enjoying the instrument for personal growth. I combine traditional teaching methods with innovative techniques, and I strive to make each lesson both enjoyable and effective.

While I emphasize the importance of our amazing note system as the foundation of my teaching—providing a broad range of playing possibilities—I also advocate for playing from memory and auditory learning. For instance, Irish folk tunes and improvisation are often featured in my classes as they encourage a deeper connection to the instrument.
I believe that heart-based playing fosters a strong bond between the musician and their craft.
In addition, I’m a firm believer in the power of solid technique as it unlocks the freedom to explore the rich and diverse world of violin and viola repertoire. Progress, for me, equals fulfillment.
My approach spans a variety of pieces from different periods and genres, studies, and scales to ensure a well-rounded experience that balances challenge with achievable rewards. Above all, I believe disciplined yet enjoyable practice is a key ingredient in mastering the violin.