Kate’s exuberant warmth brings out the best in each and every student in her studio - from the very beginner to the accomplished musician, from the tiniest preschooler to the older and wiser. We are thrilled that she has expanded from a smaller studio to a larger one, so that more students can be infected by her deep knowledge and love of music.
— R. Gonoccio - Mother of student
Mosaic has opened a new world of musical exploration for our son. Kate has a warm, supportive approach to private lessons that call on her deep musical and teaching talents. The variety of opportunities to play with other students in group classes have made lessons and performing challenging, engaging, and fun.
— Juliet Stumpf - mother of student
Kate O’Brien has a classical background and runs her own music school with various styles and instruments. She hosts the Portland Fiddle Camp which draws numerous kids. Kate is a high energy instructor who captures the attention of your students and brings them to the next level.
— Jim Kennet owner of ZigZag Mountain Campout & NW Youth Hostel

WEEKLY PRIVATE LESSONS

Learn about our program

GROUP CLASSES

Check out and register for our unique selection of monthly group classes.

Mosaic String Academy (MSA) fits the needs of the budding string musician, of any age and ability level. We believe that everyone and anyone can learn to play an instrument. This is also the fundamental principle of the Suzuki Method. We endeavor to make learning all styles of music fun, easy and accessible.  It is also our job to teach beautiful tone, technique and good practice habits. In the end, we wish to teach artistry.

We have a joyful approach to learning and exploring all kinds of music on orchestral strings. MSA members receive weekly private lessons in classical violin, viola, cello or bass. In addition, each student chooses one or more monthly group class(es) with a focus on music they’re curious about. We host two concerts of Solo repertoire and two concerts of Group Class music each year. It’s great! Come join us!

MSA is the only string studio of its kind in the metro-Portland area. In addition, Kate’s connection to the old-time and fiddle scene presents Mosaic students with opportunities such as music camps, festivals and fiddle contests. Kate is highly involved in the NW music community and is owner of Portland Fiddle Camps summer day camp. All of MSA’s teachers hold degrees in Music Education/Performance and are active performers in classical, jazz, psych rock, alternative, folk and experimental groups. We walk our talk!

At Mosaic we aim to support the growing demand for alternative ways to experience our historical instruments!