Cellist
Shirley Edith Hunt makes herself known in Los Angeles and beyond as a masterful cross-genre interpreter and veritable Renaissance
woman. She is dedicated to delivering vibrant, committed performances of old and new music alike, and is equally at
home performing on modern and historical instruments.
Shirley holds a Master's
degree in cello performance from the USC Thornton School of Music, where she studied with Ronald Leonard, former principal
cellist of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Shirley also holds a Bachelor's degree from Northwestern University, where
she was a student of renowned pedagogue Hans Jørgen Jensen, editor of the highly acclaimed Ivan Galamian Scale System
for Cello. Shirley has received extensive training in chamber music, contemporary music, and baroque performance practice
through programs at the Meadowmount School, The New England Conservatory and the Long School of Music.
Shirley's recent engagements have included performances with Musica Angelica Baroque Orchestra,
Bach Collegium San Diego, and the Los Angeles Master Chorale. She also performs with pop, rock, and jazz groups and
has appeared at the SXSW festival and in clubs and alternative concert venues across the United States.
Shirley has nearly 10 years of teaching experience and offers an enthused, passionate perspective
to cellists of all ages and ability levels. She places a strong emphasis on fundamentals and good technique, while simultaneously
encouraging imaginative musicianship and creative thinking. She truly believes that each student is a uniquely gifted
person who deserves the most positive, joyful learning environment possible!
Shirley also
offers specialized instruction in baroque cello, viola da gamba, and historical performance practice.
