Stephanie Flores

I’ve been passionate about teaching since a young age, starting in community programs while still in high school. Over the course of my career, I’ve taught students of all ages for more than 15 years, and I’m always striving to make lessons engaging and enjoyable while helping my students reach their goals. Whether you’re looking to play as a hobby or pursue music professionally, I’m committed to tailoring lessons to meet your individual needs and aspirations.

I believe in making lessons flexible and adaptable based on what students want to achieve, ensuring a supportive and encouraging environment. I love learning new things to bring into my teaching, which is why I’m constantly pursuing professional development opportunities. I currently hold three master’s degrees—two in music performance and one in Spanish literature.

In addition to running my private cello studio, I teach as a music instructor at Laramie County Community College. I’m also actively involved in the professional music community, playing with the Cheyenne Symphony Orchestra, Greeley Philharmonic Orchestra, and occasionally with the Fort Collins Symphony. As Executive Director of the University of Wyoming Cello Festival, I work closely with cellists from across the region to foster growth and collaboration in the cello community. I have also Suzuki certifications in Violin and beginning cello, I enjoy working with children and communicating that practicing is a way of a daily activity in a fun way. 

I’ve had the honor of presenting at the American String Teachers Association conference in 2024 and collaborating with cello professors from various universities to enhance teaching practices. I’m excited to continue sharing my love for music with students of all levels and helping them keep music a part of their lives for years to come.

My teaching style focuses heavily on analyzing students' movements after they play for me. I ensure that their physical technique aligns with the repertoire they are working on, emphasizing that how they hold the instrument and master the basics is crucial for both their comfort and performance. I like to start lessons by warming up the body with pizzicato, scales, or other activities to help students ease into playing.

I am a strong believer in the power of repetition and isolating difficult passages to work through technical challenges effectively. I don't believe in playing a piece all the way through without addressing or identifying specific problem areas, as this type of focused practice leads to greater improvement.

I also incorporate the Suzuki method and its philosophy into my teaching, finding it a great approach to developing musicality and technique. Above all, I make it a priority to tailor my teaching to each student's unique needs and learning style, adapting my methods to help them grow at their own pace.