Program Overview
At Lawrence, you will experience individualized cello 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 cello student, you perform regularly with the Lawrence Symphony Orchestra, participate in weekly studio classes, 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 cello program equips you with the musical, intellectual, and professional skills to thrive.
Program Highlights
Connect Music and Academic Study
Combine conservatory-level 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.
Perform Early and Often
Build experience through orchestra, chamber music, solo recitals, and masterclasses.
Types of Degrees
Most cello students pursue a Bachelor of Music in Performance. Students can also enroll in a B.Mus. in Music Education, Composition, or Music Theory, while studying cello. Our dual-degree program allows students to earn any of the above concurrent with a BA in another discipline. The BA in Music allows students to design their own cello-related major. Majors in other fields have complete access to all Conservatory classes, including lessons.
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
Engage deeply and collaboratively with faculty who are experts in their field and committed to supporting your education.
All Faculty
Kivie Cahn-Lipman (he/him)
Associate Professor of Music – Cello
kivie.cahn-lipman@lawrence.edu
Praised in the New York Times for his versatility, Kivie Cahn-Lipman is the founding cellist of the International Contemporary Ensemble, founder and lironist of baroque string band ACRONYM, co-founder and gambist of the viol consorts LeStrange and Science Ficta, and founder and…
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Loren Dempster (He/Him/His)
Instructor of Music
Loren Kiyoshi Dempster uses a combination of cello, computer, electronics, composition, improvisation, notated scores, movement, and world music influences to create, teach and perform music. He has created and performed…
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As a cello student at Lawrence, you will spend your days learning and performing in a variety of inspiring musical spaces. Practice rooms and ensemble rehearsal rooms are in abundance. You’ll 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.
