Supportive yet challenging, you will advance your violin skills through weekly lessons, studio classes, technique courses, and one-on-one coaching.

Grow your artistry, build your technical facility, and expand your musical possibilities in a community of empowerment, collaboration, and support. Hone and challenge your performance skills with a diverse array of solo, chamber, and ensemble experiences. Dig into the transformational power of music through community outreach. Become the versatile and entrepreneurial musician the world needs. Where will your musical journey take you?

Two students hold a violin and cello in a garden.

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

Explore Life After Lawrence
Music & Arts

A Musical Journey | This is Lawrence

As a student in the Conservatory of Music, Martha McDonnell ’14 found a way to balance her two distinct musical interests: classical violin performance and fiddling. Her unique skill set landed her a spot in Sting’s musical The Last Ship before she had even graduated, and she’s since performed on Broadway in Steve Martin’s Bright Star.

Performance Opportunities

From orchestras and mariachi to chamber groups, access ensembles of many shapes and styles.

Explore Ensembles

Expert Faculty

The violin program is led by Samantha George and Wen-Lei Gu, Associate Professors of Music.

Meet Our Faculty

Create a Musical Life

Discover the many paths open to Conservatory graduates.

See Outcomes
A musician playing an electric violin.

Studio Culture

The violin program is supportive but challenging, where you’ll collaborate with your fellow musicians while pushing them and yourselves to be better artists. Innovative teaching techniques and individualized instruction will prepare you for performances in the Lawrence Symphony Orchestra, chamber ensembles, and beyond. You’ll perform in weekly studio classes and give and receive written and aural feedback that will help you grow your confidence and develop your stage persona.

A musician playing Lawrence’s 1680s Andrea Guarneri violin.

Special Strings

Special violins, like two made by contemporary luthier Douglas Cox and an 1680s Andrea Guarneri violin, are available for student use.

Learn About the Guarneri
close up of students' hands playing drum and filling a test tube

Multiple Degree Options

What happens when you combine a world-class conservatory with a world-class college? An unmatched undergraduate musical education. At Lawrence, the Conservatory and College experiences are intertwined. Multiple degree options let you be your own muse by connecting your musical passions with your academic interests.

Discover Degree Options
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Apply and Audition

A musical life awaits. Take the next steps by applying and auditioning.

Apply Now

Visit Our Campus

The best way to find out if Lawrence is the university for you is by visiting.

Schedule Your Visit

Visit Virtually

Your virtual tour starts at the Arch but be sure to check out Conservatory, to explore learning and performance spaces.

Start Your Tour
Open book of music.

Up to $5000

Funds for Conservatory Student Projects

You'll have access to financial support for internships at venues like Carnegie Hall, touring and summer festivals, and even commissioning new works to perform in recitals.

Explore Upcoming Performances

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