konopkamusic
ABOUT CYNTHIA
With over 35 years of performance and training experience, Cynthia's love for music started at the very young age of three and has carried her not only through various levels of education but has enabled her to travel the world. Through her passion for music, Cynthia studied under world-renowned professors and internationally acclaimed performers, including the late violinist Lorand Fenyves, and international opera singer Igor Saika-Voivod Sr., who studied under the great Mario del Monaco.
Cynthia has a strong interest in Italian and Russian vocal repertoire, however has performed in 8 different languages and has a great interest in incorporating multiculturalism and diversity into her music. With over 25 years of teaching experience, Cynthia enjoys working with orchestras, string ensembles, choirs, individual singers and musicians of all ages.
Most recent musical projects include performing in the Luna Concert Series at Chateau des Charmes as feature violinist, as well as performing in the Lavender Symphony, Cinema Symphony, and the 3 Tenor Concert Productions. Cynthia is also a member of the Southern Ontario Lyric Opera Orchestra, and has performed at various Italian Heritage Festivals in Hamilton, ON, and the Niagara 5000 Charity Gala, as a violinist.
Cynthia is the creator and featured artist of the concert series Acoustics of the Soul, which explores the power of sound through 'the Verdi A tuning,' acoustic resonance, and vibrational experience. These performances are presented both in live concert settings and at private events, and include Cynthia performing both on violin and as a soprano.
As a freelance musician, Cynthia continues to perform with ensembles and as a soloist at various weddings, functions and charity events across North America, with highlights that include being selected to sing the National Anthem at numerous professional sporting events.
Some projects along her teaching journey include being a String Clinician at Appleby College and directing music programs at the Dearcroft Montessori School, in Oakville, ON, as well as musical theatre coaching, and violin consulting and instruction for the Netflix Series, Umbrella Academy.
Cynthia is a dedicated teacher who works with students of all ages. She has developed her own unique teaching method, guiding students in piano, voice, violin, and viola from her private studios in Oakville and Niagara.
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Warm Regards,
Cynthia
Cynthia Konopka
“Music is a multi-dimensional language that can be heard, felt, seen, spoken, expressed as an emotion, as passion, and/or as an expression of self. Because music is so personal, my role is to help each student learn in their own unique way.”
- Cynthia Konopka
MY MUSIC TEACHING PHILOSOPHY
My teaching experience is diverse and I focus on both technical and musical concepts, within a disciplined, goal-oriented and structured environment. I also believe that it is important to enjoy the process of music exploration, and therefore adapt to my students’ learning styles to bring out the best musician in them.
Music is a multi-dimensional language that can
be heard, felt, seen, spoken, expressed as an emotion,
as passion, and/or as an expression of self.
Because music is so personal, my role is to help each
student learn in their own unique way.
- Cynthia Konopka
SERVICES
VIOLIN - VIOLA - COACHING - PIANO - VOICE
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I also offer the opportunity to explore a diverse selection of instruments in one scheduled session, should a student choose to explore more than one instrument. Both private and group sessions are offered for students of all ages.
Violin
I have a strong passion for teaching violin as it was the first instrument I studied. The violin is an instrument that develops the ear, which is essential for music study. Coordination between right and left hand can be challenging however with proper method, guidance, and instruction, it can be accomplished with great ease.
Viola
The viola is an instrument I started to explore later in my musical career. I have always been intrigued with the lower pitches and depth of sound this instrument offers. I thoroughly enjoy teaching the viola and working with students who choose to study this very unique instrument.
Piano
I find the piano to be the most tangible instrument to teach. Through my method of instruction that I have developed over the years, I feel that this is an excellent instrument for a beginner student to explore, as well as a mature pupil with little or no musical experience. With the concept of teaching that involves a layered approach, results are seen quickly, and it is not long before the student is confident in their abilities.
Voice
Singing is an extension of who we are; it is our own innate instrument. The voice cannot be seen, however my understanding of the voice and teaching method includes imagery, physics of sound, and putting the body in the most optimal state, which aids the student in the learning process. Technique, expression, and emotion are fundamental factors in accomplishing a well-developed singing voice.
Coaching
Musical coaching: this service covers sporadic and/or focused assessment and coaching. I work with the student to hone in on specific elements, and to improve overall performance. I look at the details and specific musical or technical needs of the student, and assist them in enhancing their overall skills by breaking down existing resistance points and obstacles.
I welcome my students at my studio in Niagara- on-the-Lake, and at my studio in Oakville.
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If you live outside of the areas where lessons are given, internationally, or if you are traveling - you can also request a student assessment and/or private instruction with Cynthia on-line (via Skype / FaceTime).
Please contact me here - cynthia@konopkamusic.com for further information.