Adriana Black

Hello! My name is Adriana Black and I am a cello performance major at the University of Houston, Moores School of Music. I am attending the university on a full scholarship from the organization "Music Doing Good". My private instructor and mentor is Professor Vagram Saradjian, a former student of Mstislav Rostropovich. Under his direction, I have learned how to work with students of all ages and level. In high school, I studied with Ms. Fran Koiner and Dr. Daniel Saenz. I have played piano from the age of two and have been playing the cello for a total of six years. During my piano studies, I participated in both Piano Guild and Gold Cup for many years. While I was studying piano under Stephanie Toepoel, I was coached on piano pedagogy, specializing in students ages two-twelve.

Performance experience: After studying cello for a year, I began competing in local concerto competitions. At thirteen, I won my first competition at Bay Area Youth Symphony. I also competed in the Clear Lake Symphony Concerto Competition, and took third place at the Sam Houston State University Summer Conservatory Concerto Competition. I currently play in multiple small and large ensembles at the Moores School of Music. In addition to my school studies, I play at Clear Lake Symphony, Galveston Symphony Orchestra, and I am hired for contract positions for special events. Throughout my years of playing, I have had the privilege to play in Jones Hall and meet both Yo-Yo Ma and John Williams, and perform as the guest artist at several studio recitals.

Teaching experience: I have taught beginner piano and all levels of cello for six years. Music theory and aural skills are of the utmost importance to me, and I look to enforce them in every aspect of music studies. I strongly believe in adapting curriculum to what works best for each individual student. I understand that each student is unique; therefore, their studies should be specialized for their interests and goals. I enjoy working with all ages and have taught students as young as three. For younger students (ages three to six), I focus on rhythm, coordination, motor skills, and exposure to classical music in fun and unique ways. For older students (ages seven and up), I continue to enforce basic skills, but expound upon their importance and include scales, music theory, and aural skills.

As both a soloist and orchestral performer, I have played a variety of styles, and enjoy teaching everything from early baroque music to 20th-century pieces. I am looking forward to meeting you and beginning your music studies.