Monika Szemelak

I am a professional violinist based in Poland, with extensive orchestral, chamber, and solo experience across a wide range of repertoire. I hold both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Violin Performance (with distinction) from the Academy of Art in Szczecin, where I studied under renowned pedagogues and received the Rector’s Scholarship for artistic excellence.

I am currently an active orchestral musician, performing with leading Polish ensembles such as the Cavatina Philharmonic Orchestra, Baltic Neopolis Orchestra, Sinfonia Iuventus, and the Grand Theatre in Łódź. Alongside my orchestral work, I regularly perform as a soloist and chamber musician, appearing at festivals and concert series across Poland.

In my teaching, I focus on building a solid technical foundation, healthy and efficient playing habits, and a deep musical understanding of the repertoire. I work with students of various levels — from motivated beginners to advanced players preparing auditions, competitions, or orchestral excerpts.

My lessons are highly individualized and may include:

• violin technique and posture
• tone production and bow control
• left-hand development and intonation
• orchestral excerpts and audition preparation
• solo and chamber repertoire
• musical interpretation and stylistic awareness

I aim to create a supportive, focused, and inspiring learning environment, helping students gain confidence, clarity, and joy in their playing.

I look forward to working with dedicated students who want to develop both their technical skills and musical expression.

I deeply enjoy teaching through an individualized approach, always adapting my methods to each student’s unique needs, learning style, and personality. I believe that effective learning happens when technical work is aligned with how a person naturally thinks, feels, and processes information.

I am currently expanding my pedagogical work through research and practice in neurodiversity-affirming learning, exploring how resources such as ADHD, dyslexia, synesthesia, and absolute (perfect) pitch can become strengths rather than obstacles in musical development. I integrate these perspectives into my teaching to help students better understand their own learning processes and unlock their full musical potential.

My goal is to create a supportive, attentive, and flexible learning environment where students feel seen, understood, and empowered to grow both technically and artistically.