Welcome to Potrero Hill Cello Lessons!
Do you have a cello gathering dust, or are you a more experienced player preparing for an audition? Either way, I'm happy to help you achieve your musical goals. I teach students of all ages and levels, from five-year-old beginners to retired hobbyists. My studio is open to everyone!
My teaching philosophy revolves around patience, persistence, and positivity, as well as tailoring lessons to fit the individual. As a member of my studio, you can expect to develop excellent technique, a sophisticated musical palette, and a thorough understanding of music history and theory. The foundation of my curriculum is based on Suzuki principles, Dalcroze eurythmics, and Kodály concepts, resulting in comprehensive and engaging lessons.
I offer in-person lessons at my home in San Francisco, remote lessons, and hybrid lessons (a combination of in-person and remote lessons).
About Me
Naomi Stoodley is a cello teacher and performing artist based in San Francisco, California. Having graduated with honors from the University of California, Santa Barbara, Ms. Stoodley holds B.M. and M.M. degrees in cello performance. As a student, Ms. Stoodley served as the teaching assistant for the cello and music appreciation courses, as well as performed as a member of the distinguished Young Artists String Quartet (YASQ). Not only has Ms. Stoodley participated in masterclasses led by renowned cellists, such as Ben Hong and Steven Isserlis, but she has also given concerts at prestigious venues, including Walt Disney Concert Hall and Thayer Hall. Beyond teaching, Ms. Stoodley is an experienced ensemble musician and performs an array of genres. Past and present ensembles include the Lompoc Pops Orchestra, San Luis Obispo Symphony, Santa Barbara Chamber Players, Santa Maria Philharmonic, Solano Symphony Orchestra, and Symphony of the Vines. As a solo cellist and chamber musician, she is also regularly hired to play at corporate events, weddings, and other special occasions.
Ms. Stoodley possesses over a decade of private teaching experience, and she is also adept at leading group classes. For a number of years, she served as a group cello coach for grades 6-12 in the Ventura Unified School District (VUSD). Ms. Stoodley is also a dedicated member of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA), Music Teachers' Association of California (MTAC), and Suzuki Association of Northern California (SANC). She instructs cellists of all ages and levels, and her students have received principal chair in their advanced school orchestras and earned outstanding scores on Certificate of Merit® performance evaluations and theory exams. Throughout the year, Ms. Stoodley's students have the opportunity to perform in numerous MTAC competitions, masterclasses, and recitals, as well as studio events.
Latest News
March 4, 2025
Congratulations to our Certificate of Merit® participants! Students passed their evaluations with high marks and theory scores of 98% and above.
October 10, 2024
Check out Naomi Stoodley's interview in CanvasRebel Magazine!
July 10, 2024
Long Tone Challenge 2024 Results:
Brian - Longest Long Tone
Laura - Honorable Mention
Great job!
June 22, 2023
Long Tone Challenge 2023 Results:
Brian - Longest Long Tone, Most Improved
Philip - Best Tone
Congratulations, Brian and Philip!