Sunny Cantabile

I’m a dedicated violin educator and performer with a passion for helping young musicians grow with confidence, discipline, and joy. With extensive experience teaching children of all ages and backgrounds, I specialize in tailoring lessons to each student’s personality and learning environment—because no two students are alike, and each one deserves a unique, supportive approach.

I hold a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance from Arizona State University and a Master of Music in Violin Performance from Louisiana State University. Wanting to better understand how to teach children effectively and support their individual learning needs, I pursued an additional Master’s degree in Music Education from Hunter College (CUNY). This program gave me the tools to engage students with structure, empathy, and creativity.

My performance career has included appearances at major music festivals such as the Brevard Music Festival, as well as chamber and orchestral performances across the U.S. and France.

For the past five years, I’ve taught group violin classes in elementary, middle, and high schools as part of an after-school music program, in addition to maintaining a private studio of students ranging from beginners to advanced players. I take pride in adapting my teaching to each student’s developmental stage and unique learning style. My students not only build solid technical foundations, but also grow in musical expression, confidence, and love for music.

In addition to teaching, I also share my musical journey on YouTube, where I post violin covers and educational videos with lesson tips. It’s a space where I stay connected to my own growth as a musician while reaching a broader community. If you're curious about my teaching style or playing, feel free to check it out! 

Whether your child is holding a violin for the first time or preparing for auditions, I’m committed to making lessons a meaningful and motivating experience. I look forward to helping them discover their musical voice!

My teaching style is rooted in understanding each student’s unique personality, background, and pace of learning. I believe that building a strong connection with each child and adapting to their individual needs is essential to long-term musical growth. Whether in private or group settings, I bring patience, creativity, and structure to every lesson—striking a balance between solid technique, musical expression, and a sense of fun.

Students can expect a well-rounded lesson experience that emphasizes strong fundamentals such as posture, bowing, intonation, rhythm, and tone production. For younger learners, I incorporate playful, interactive methods like movement, singing, and musical games to keep lessons engaging and age-appropriate. For more advanced students, I provide support in performance preparation, audition readiness, and expressive interpretation.

I am experienced in preparing students for standardized music assessments such as NYSSMA and ABRSM, as well as competitions and solo performances. I enjoy helping students set personalized goals and work toward them with confidence and clarity.

In addition to private teaching, I have built and led school orchestras through my work in public school programs—teaching and conducting orchestra classes that bring students together in ensemble playing. This experience has deepened my understanding of how to nurture both individual and group musicianship, and has further strengthened my belief in the power of music to build community and confidence.

My greatest strength as a teacher is the ability to adapt my methods to fit each student’s age, experience level, and learning style. Whether your child is picking up the violin for the first time or preparing for a major performance or exam, I’m committed to helping them grow into a confident, joyful musician.