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STRINGLAB STUDIO

Violin & Viola Lessons

About

My name is Mara Tieles, and I am a violin and viola teacher originally from Cuba, now based in Amsterdam. My studios are located in Amsterdam Oost and Oud West. I show students of all levels, with a genuine passion for music, how to optimize and amplify their practice. My teaching approach, developed through years of professional touring, emphasizes the connection between the body and the instrument, helping students become confident and independent players. Additionally, I prepare students for the ABRSM exam, a globally recognized music examination. I've recorded and performed with international artists and ensembles such as H. Schellenberger, Snarky Puppy, Junkie XL, the European Baroque Orchestra, and the European Union Chamber Orchestra. My performances have taken me to concert halls worldwide, including the Berliner Philharmoniker and Concertgebouw. Beyond teaching at my studios, I give workshops and masterclasses globally, and regularly serve as a jury member at conservatories such as Codarts Rotterdam, Maastricht Conservatorium, and ArtEZ Arnhem. With a background in Musical Performance, AI-focused research, and certifications in Music for Video Games from Berklee and Emotional Intelligence, I am dedicated to fostering unique musical expression. Playing with others is an important element of my teaching, and I nurture this during the two annual concerts I organize with my classes at Muziekpakhuis Amsterdam. Let's schedule a trial lesson to see if we are a good fit for each other. That’s my story in a nutshell. For the extended version, click on the BIO!

Mara Tieles in haar muziekstudio

schedule a trial lesson

maratieles@gmail.com

What you'll learn

What you'll learn

Welcome!

 Master a solid technical foundation

by understanding the fundamental principles of violin technique and music theory . Learn how to integrate your daily movements in the approach to the instrument. Bringing awareness and balance to your playing.

Nurture a positive inner critic

by understanding your thought process you will be able to optimise your playing. Many times your beliefs may hold you back from reaching your desired goals. This is the reason why it is important to address our limiting beliefs through.

Develop your own musical ideas

you will be capable to adapt new exercises to your own evolving musical needs. My main goal is that you learn the tools that will ultimately help you communicate emotions, musical ideas and develop your own musical personality.

Fees

Student Fees

All prices are exclusive of 21% BTW for students older than 21 

Individual

weekly 45 minutes lesson
€48,50 per lesson
  • Package: 20 lessons over 5 months
  • Payment: 2 installments
  • Cancellation Notice: 1.5 months
  • Location: Oost / Oud West / Centrum

Individual

weekly 60 minutes lesson
€65 per lesson
  • Package: 10 lessons over 5 months
  • Payment: 2 installments
  • Cancellation Notice: 1.5 months
  • Location: Oost / Oud West / Centrum

Group (max 3 students)

weekly 50 minutes lesson
€34,90 per lesson
  • Package: 10 lessons over 3 months
  • Payment: 2 installments
  • Cancellation Notice: 1.5 months
  • Location: Centrum

One-off

Occasional Individual Lesson 60 minutes
€70 per lesson
  • Loose lesson – no package commitment

Concerts

Twice a year, I organize concerts where students play together in various groups. These events, held in December and July at the Muziekpakhuis in Amsterdam, provide a clear goal and a chance to perform with others. Custom arrangements are written to suit each student's needs, and these activities are included in the lessons. By fostering creativity and self-expression through tailored instruction and thoughtful guidance, I aim to make each student's musical journey as rewarding and enriching as possible.

FAQ

FAQ

frequently asked questions

  • How can I schedule a trial lesson?
    To schedule a trial lesson, please email me at maratieles@gmail.com.
  • What are your available lesson slots?
    I teach on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.
  • I don't have an instrument. Can we plan the first lesson?
    Definitely! I have instruments available at both studios that you can use during our first lesson. Additionally, I can provide guidance on renting or purchasing a violin or viola in Amsterdam.
  • Where can I rent/buy a violin or viola in Amsterdam?
    I recommend renting an instrument first. Here are a couple of luthiers in Amsterdam where you can rent one: 1. Bas Maas Vioolbouw Phone: 020 772 4962 2. Achttienribbe Vioolbouw Phone: 020 239 1406 It's advisable to call ahead and make an appointment. The rental should include the violin, bow, case, rosin, and I would recommend asking if they can provide a sponge-style shoulder rest.
  • How are lessons billed and scheduled?
    Lessons are organized into packages of 10 or 20, invoiced every 3 months. The lessons are divided into two blocks per year: the first block runs from September to January, and the second block runs from February to June. You can also enroll at any point during the year. If you enroll mid-block, the package and billing will be adjusted accordingly to fit the remaining lessons within the current block.
  • Not sure if you can afford the lessons?
    It's worth checking if you're eligible for financial assistance. You may qualify for support from organizations like Jeugdfonds Sport & Cultuur Amsterdam, which aims to make cultural and sports activities accessible to all children. Additionally, for talented and committed students from the Antillean community, I offer a special opportunity for a free weekly 30-minute lesson at each of my studios in Oud West and Oost. Feel free to inquire about this opportunity.
  • Do I need a shoulder rest?
    I highly recommend using a shoulder rest for added comfort and stability while playing. The shoulder rest I personally recommend, and use myself, is available here: Habo Non-Slip Shoulder Rest For more options and fun models, you can also explore these
  • What is the ABRSM exam and what are its benefits?
    The ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music) exam is a globally recognized music examination that assesses students' performance, theory, and musicianship. It provides structured learning, international accreditation, and valuable feedback, enhancing opportunities for advanced study and professional growth in music.
  • Which apps for metronome and tuner do you recommend?
    These are your best friends when it comes to practicing effectively. For the metronome, I recommend using Pro Metronome. For tuning your instrument, I suggest Clear Tune. Alternatively, you can use this free tuner: - Chromatic Guitar Tuner
  • What happens if I cancel a lesson?
    Changes must be communicated at least 24 hours in advance to qualify for a retake. If you cannot attend a lesson, you can always make it up on a Saturday afternoon.
  • How do I stop lessons?
    If you wish to stop taking lessons, there is a cancellation notice period of 1.5 months (3 or 6 lessons in advance). Lessons paid for beyond this period will be refunded.
Contact

Locations

Muziekpakhuis Oud West

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Alberdingk Thijmstraat 19

Amsterdam

@: info@maratieles.com

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MONDAYS 

StringLAB Studio Oost

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Feike de Boerlaan 229

Amsterdam

@: info@maratieles.com

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WAITING LIST

StringLAB Studio Centrum

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Walenpleintje 155

Amsterdam

@: info@maratieles.com

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TUESDAYS and WEDNESDAYS

Still Have Questions?

Feel free to drop me a line anytime at

info@maratieles.com

 

I look forward to hearing from you!

© 2024 stringlab studio

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