About Em Yates

Born and raised in Arizona, Em Yates is a seasoned cellist who began their musical journey as a young child. While learning the cello, she began to develop an intense passion for classical music, leading her to join many local music camps and symphonies. It was this passion and collection of musical experiences that led Em to acquire a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and Cello Performance at Northern Arizona University in 2014.

Emily has taught cello privately for more than 10 years and in a public school setting for several years. These include her time as a Music Teacher in the Pendergast District and the Queen Creek Unified School District, teaching for both orchestra and band classes. During her time as a music educator, Em has collaborated with many other music teachers and musicians. This includes performing in two folk bands, both of which she continues to be an active member of in her free time.

When she is not playing cello or teaching music, Em enjoys spending time either in the great outdoors—from hiking the Grand Canyon to rafting white water rapids—or loving life with her large family. She and her family are also frequently volunteering within their community, aspiring to make the world a better place than when they entered it.