Program Overview
At Lawrence, you will experience individualized violin instruction in a close-knit Conservatory community while enjoying the breadth of a nationally recognized liberal arts education. Our performance-focused program helps you refine your technique, deepen your artistry, and discover your musical voice.
As a violin student, you perform regularly with the Lawrence Symphony Orchestra, participate in weekly studio classes, work with distinguished guest artists, present solo recitals, and collaborate with peers in chamber ensembles. Whether your goal is a future in performance, teaching, graduate study, arts leadership, or another field, the Lawrence violin program equips you with the musical, intellectual, and professional skills to thrive.
Program Highlights
Connect Music and Academic Study
Combine conservatory-level violin training with a rigorous, nationally recognized education across the arts and sciences.
Earn Two Degrees in Five Years
Complete both a Bachelor of Music and a Bachelor of Arts through Lawrence’s five-year dual-degree program.
Prepare for Multiple Paths
Develop the artistic excellence and intellectual versatility to pursue a wide range of musical and professional opportunities.
More Performance opportunities
Build experience through orchestra, chamber music, solo recitals, and masterclasses.
Spotlight
Student Perspective
“My mentors at Lawrence have broadened my perspective. There are so many ways to connect with people through music, and I want to explore all of them.”
Avery Riel ’23
Music Performance (Violin)
Decatur, Georgia
Types of Degrees
Violin students can pursue a Bachelor of Music in Performance, with options to add a minor in pedagogy or an emphasis in jazz and improvisational music. Students interested in becoming licensed school music teachers can pursue a Bachelor of Music in Music Education while studying violin as their primary instrument. Lawrence’s distinctive dual-degree program allows students to earn both a Bachelor of Music and a Bachelor of Arts in another discipline. Popular complementary fields include Business & Entrepreneurship, Neuroscience, Biology, Mathematics, and Psychology.
Advising
At Lawrence, academic advising helps you shape an educational experience that reflects your interests, goals, and aspirations. Your faculty advisor will support you as you plan your path, connect with campus resources and communities, and make informed decisions that prepare you for a meaningful and fulfilling future.
Faculty
You’ll be in good hands with professors who combine world-class artistry with a passion for teaching.
Chairs
Samantha George (she/her)
Associate Professor of Music and Teacher of Violin
Currently Associate Professor of Music at Lawrence University, Samantha George served as Associate Concertmaster of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra from 1999-2008 and as Acting Concertmaster of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra…
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Samantha George (she/her)
Associate Professor of Music and Teacher of Violin
Currently Associate Professor of Music at Lawrence University, Samantha George served as Associate Concertmaster of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra from 1999-2008 and as Acting Concertmaster of the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra…
View Full Profile
Wen-Lei Gu
Associate Professor of Music
Violinist Wen-Lei Gu has won international acclaim as soloist, recitalist, and chamber musician with her passionate playing and profound musicianship. The Frankfurter Neue Presse praised her playing as “a musical sensation –…
View Full ProfileLearning Spaces
As a violin student at Lawrence, you will spend your days learning and performing in a variety of inspiring musical spaces. You present solo recitals and chamber music concerts in the intimate setting of Harper Hall and perform large-ensemble concerts in the magnificent Lawrence Memorial Chapel. Access to professional recording services allows you to create audition materials, document performances, and build your artistic portfolio. Whether practicing, rehearsing, performing, recording, or collaborating across disciplines, Lawrence’s facilities support every stage of your development as a musician, helping you build the confidence, versatility, and experience needed for a successful musical future.
