Private String Music Studio


Helping children, teenagers, and adults build confidence, master solid technique, and develop a lifelong love for music through personalised, one-on-one mentorship.Specialising in: Beginners, Advanced Musicians, AMEB & ABRSM Exam Preparation, and HSC Music Support.




Meet Your Teacher, Marcella Felicia


My relationship with the violin began at the age of six, sparking a lifelong dedication that saw me turn professional by just twelve years old with a concert debut by "Handel Messiah" Concert.A passionate pedagogue and performer, Marcella brings a wealth of global experience, technical precision, and creative artistry to her teaching style. Demonstrating her exceptional standard of instructional excellence, she just recently won the prestigious Sydney Catholic Schools Eisteddfod, securing first places in both the Primary and Secondary School programs 2026. This accolade underscores her unique ability to mentor students across all developmental stages, successfully guiding them toward the highest levels of competitive and performance success.Following years of intensive study under renowned mentors Matt Bruce and Finna Kurniawati, Marcella earned her Master’s Degree in Violin Performance on an Excellence Scholarship from the Australian Institute of Music (AIM). Her extensive global training includes advanced technical masterclasses at the Singapore Violin Festival under some of the world's finest pedagogues, including Professor Boris Garlitsky from Russia, Professor Moni Simeonov from Bulgaria, Professor XieNan from China, Professor Yin Ke from Singapore, and Gia Jashvili from Georgia.Marcella’s teaching is directly enriched by her vibrant, active career as a global performer. Known for her incredible versatility, she moves seamlessly between prestigious classical stages and modern, high-profile collaborations. Her career highlights include performing in the G20 Orchestra at the historic Borobudur Temple, as well as collaborating with global icons such as Sam Haywood, Professor Nigel Clayton, and multi-Grammy-winning artist Laufey for a major 2024 video project.


Biography



She also serves as a principal champion of cultural diplomacy and world premieres, maintaining a long-standing creative partnership with renowned composer Ananda Sukarlan, which recently included performing "Findolandesia" for the Indonesia-Finland diplomatic anniversary and debuting his Two Australian Songs in Sydney, 2024. She continues to perform Ananda’s music and maintain a good relationship with the composer himself.As a leader of the Sydney Youth Orchestra, Sydney Concert Orchestra, and Western Sydney Symphony and the founder of Efrata Strings, a platform created in 2024 dedicated to bringing high-quality string music beyond the traditional concert hall; Marcella is deeply committed to shaping the future of the local music scene.


Teaching Philosophy


My approach to teaching is built on the belief that technical mastery and artistic expression should develop hand-in-hand, whether you are picking up the instrument for the first time or preparing for a high-stakes exam. I draw from my international training to create a curriculum that is both disciplined and deeply personal.Having played since early childhood, I place immense value on the principles of aural development. I don't just teach you how to move your fingers; I teach you how to listen, ensuring your intonation and musicality are professional from the start.From performing in the G20 Orchestra at Borobudur Temple to my 2024 collaboration with Laufey, my career spans the highest levels of classical and modern music. As a founder of Efrata Strings and a teacher, I understand the "big picture" of musical education, helping students navigate everything from AMEB exams to high-pressure auditions.Whether you are an adult learner starting your own journey or a parent looking for an experienced mentor for your child, I bring a level of professionalism and empathy that only comes from someone who has lived and breathed music for over twenty years. I offer a structured, encouraging environment where we bridge the gap between technical discipline and pure artistic joy.

Lessons


30 min — $60
Ideal for younger beginners to maintain optimal focus.
45 min — $75 [Recommended]
The "sweet spot" for intermediate students, or beginners wanting to integrate vital music theory.
1 hour — $110
Recommended for advanced students, adults, and complex exam/concerto preparation.
30 min trial lesson — $50


Tuition is prepaid in flexible 5-lesson or 10-lesson blocks to secure your recurring weekly timeslot in the studio calendar.


Testimonials


Every student learns differently. My lessons combine strong technical foundations with creativity, confidence, and enjoyment so students can grow at their own pace while developing beautiful musicianship.


"Perfect energy for children!"
"I don't know the first thing about the violin, but Marcella made it look easy! My daughter was playing a simple song after her very first lesson, which was amazing to see. Marcella is so kind, high-spirited, and always has a big smile—the perfect energy for a child. I truly believe my daughter will progress fast with such an encouraging teacher. Highly recommended!"
Scarlet (Parent)


"Meticulous and thoughtful mentorship."
"She was very enthusiastic and friendly. After class, she meticulously and thoughtfully wrote down for me what we had learned and what homework assignments I needed to pay attention to."
Jacaranda (Student)

"Builds confidence step-by-step."
"Marcella has been very supportive throughout my learning. She really trusts the process and is very passionate about teaching violin. I struggled with reading a piece at first, but she guided me step by step until I finally got it. She truly cares about her students and will help you improve with confidence. She is also super nice and really cool!"
Maria (Student)


"Patient, kind, and motivating."
"I’ve been learning violin with Marcella and she has helped me improve so much. She is very kind, patient, and always explains things in a way that’s easy to understand. Her lessons are enjoyable and motivating, and she always encourages me to do my best. I would definitely recommend her to other students looking for a great violin teacher."
Chiara (Student)


"Great at explaining difficult techniques."
"Marcella's tutoring is very useful and helps students a lot with learning. She is great at explaining complex techniques in a simple way, and I would highly recommend her."
Gabriel (Student)

FAQ


🎵 What age can students start learning?
Children can begin from around 4 to 5 years old, depending on their individual readiness, motor skills, and ability to focus. I also warmly welcome teenagers and adults, including absolute beginners!
🎻 Do I need my own instrument?
Yes. Students will need their own violin or viola for regular practice at home. If you are unsure what size or brand to purchase or rent, I am happy to provide personalised recommendations before your first lesson.
📍 Where are lessons held?
Lessons are held at my private teaching studio in Waterloo, NSW. Mobile lessons may also be available for selected surrounding suburbs. Please get in touch to discuss the best option for you.
🗓️ How often should lessons be?
Most students attend one lesson each week. Consistent weekly attendance, combined with regular practice at home, provides the steady momentum needed for the best musical progress.
⏱️ What happens if I need to cancel a lesson?
Please provide a minimum of 24-hour notice if you need to reschedule. Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed lessons, will be forfeited. If proper notice is given, we can happily arrange up to two make-up lessons per term, subject to studio availability.
✉️ How do I book a trial lesson?
Simply use the enquiry form at the bottom of this page or send me a direct message via WhatsApp/SMS. I will get back to you quickly to arrange a suitable time and answer any questions you may have!

✨ Student Showcase & Recitals ✨

Details and upcoming dates soon to be released! Check back here or follow our social channels for updates on student performances and studio recitals.

Videos

Collaboration with Laufey
Performing "Savior Complex" (2024 Video Project)

Savior Complex - Laufey

World Premiere – "Findolandesia"
Composed by Ananda Sukarlan, performed by Marcella Felicia for the Indonesia-Finland diplomatic anniversary.

World Premiere - Findolandesia (Ananda Sukarlan)


📍 Waterloo, NSW 2017 | ✉️: [email protected] | 📄 ABN: 99 578 787 962 | 🛡️ WWCC Verified
🕒 Mon–Fri 3pm–8pm, Sat 9am–2pm

📜 View Studio Policies
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Attendance & Cancellations

  • 24-Hour Notice: A minimum of 24 hours' notice is strictly required to reschedule or cancel a lesson.
  • Missed Lessons: Cancellations made with less than 24 hours' notice, or missed lessons without notice, will be forfeited and cannot be refunded or made up.
  • Make-up Lessons: If proper notice is given, we will happily arrange a maximum of two make-up lessons per term, subject to studio availability.
  • Punctuality: Lessons start and end strictly at their scheduled times. Late arrivals cannot be extended out of respect for the next student's slot.
  • Term Breaks: Regular lessons run alongside the NSW public school calendar and do not run during school holidays unless organised beforehand.
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Payments & Resources

  • Lesson Bundles: All lessons are prepaid in packages of 5 or 10 blocks to secure your recurring weekly timeslot in the studio calendar.
  • Sheet Music & Materials: The cost of lesson bundles covers instructional time. Sheet music books, exam registration fees, and string accessories are purchased separately by the parent.
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Expectations & Practice

  • Practice Goals: To get the most out of our weekly sessions, students are expected to practice at home at least 4 to 5 days a week. Consistent practice is the secret to beautiful playing!
  • Illness Policy: Please do not attend lessons if the student is unwell. Contact me as early as possible, and we will pivot to a live online lesson (via Zoom) for that week so they don't miss out.
  • Parent Supervision: For children under the age of 8, a parent or guardian must remain at the studio during the lesson to help note down practice assignments for home.
  • Instrument Readiness: Students must bring their instrument, bow, shoulder rest, rosin, and current music books to every single lesson. Please ensure fingernails are trimmed short for proper finger placement.
  • Studio Respect: Please handle all studio equipment, instruments, and sheet music with care.