About Michael Ball

Michael William Ball is a dedicated cellist and music educator based in Hampton, Virginia. He holds a Bachelor of Music in Performance (Cello Emphasis) with a minor in Music Technology from the Hall-Musco Conservatory of Music at Chapman University, where he studied under Dr. Yoshika Masuda.

As both a performer and teacher, Michael brings a well-rounded and thoughtful approach to music education. He has taught private cello students of all ages and levels, working with beginners through advanced players. His lessons focus on building strong technical foundations, developing a beautiful and healthy tone, fostering musical expression, and cultivating confident performance skills. Michael has prepared students for recitals, auditions, competitions, and ensemble participation, tailoring each lesson to the individual goals and learning style of the student.

In addition to his private studio, Michael has served as a Teaching Assistant and Ensemble Coach at Garden Grove High School in California and as a Cello Instructor at Bluefield University’s Fine Arts Community School. These roles strengthened his ability to mentor young musicians, coach chamber ensembles, and support developing string programs.

As a performer, Michael has appeared as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral cellist across California, Virginia, and West Virginia. He was a finalist in the Hall-Musco Conservatory’s Annual Aria/Concerto Competition performing the Cello Concerto in E minor, Op. 85 by Edward Elgar, and has presented full solo recitals featuring works by composers such as Johann Sebastian Bach, Ludwig van Beethoven, Felix Mendelssohn, and Manuel de Falla.

Orchestrally, he performed with the Chapman Orchestra from 2022–2025, performing major symphonic works including symphonies by Gustav Mahler, Jean Sibelius, Antonín Dvořák, and Ludwig van Beethoven. He has also participated in masterclasses with members of the Juilliard String Quartet and cellist Astrid Schween.

Michael’s background in music technology—including recording techniques, mixing, and software such as Ableton Live and Logic Pro—allows him to support students interested in recording auditions, producing projects, or exploring creative musical outlets beyond traditional performance.

At the heart of Michael’s teaching is a belief that music education should build confidence, discipline, creativity, and joy. Whether a student is pursuing music at an advanced level or learning for personal enrichment, he is committed to creating a supportive, structured, and inspiring environment where each musician can grow.