Welcome !

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!

What you'll learn

schedule a trial lesson

maratieles@gmail.com

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.

Student Fees

All prices are exclusive of 21% BTW

for students older than 21

Individual

• Package Children: 20 lessons over 5 months

weekly 45 minutes lesson
€48,50 per lesson

• Package Adults: 10 lessons over 3 months

Individual

Duo

Group (max 4 students)

weekly 60 minutes lesson
€65 per lesson

weekly 45 minutes lesson
€37,50 per lesson

weekly 60 minutes lesson
€35 per lesson

• Package Adults: 10 lessons over 3 months

• Package Children: 20 lessons over 5 months

• Package Adults: 10 lessons over 3 months

• Package Adults: 10 lessons over 3 months

• Loose lesson – no package commitment

Occasional Individual Lesson 60 minutes €75 per lesson

One-Off

Contact Me

Reach out anytime to schedule your first lesson

Frequently asked questions

How can I schedule a trial lesson?

To schedule a trial lesson, please fill out the contact form.

How are lessons billed and scheduled?

Adults (21+ years):

• Lessons are organized in 10-lesson packages, invoiced every 3 months.

• You can enroll at any time during the year.

Children & Teens (up to 21 years):

• Lessons are organized in 20-lesson packages, divided into two blocks per year:

  • First block: September to January

  • Second block: February to June

Enrollment is possible at any time, if you join mid-block, the package and billing will be adjusted to cover the remaining lessons within the current block.

What are your available lesson slots?

I teach on Tuesdays, Wednesdays. At the moment I have a waiting list for Wednesdays and limited space on Tuesday.

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

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 learn more about you?

www.maratieles.com

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.

What happens if I cancel a lesson?

Changes must be communicated at least 48 hours in advance to qualify for a retake. You can reschedule a maximum of 2 lessons per package.

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.