Welcome students, visitors, parents, teachers, and alumni to the cello studio. On this page you can learn more about my studio, my approach to teaching as well as find helpful links to local luthiers, orchestras and music organizations of the Pacific Northwest and beyond. I provide private cello instruction from my studio in Bothell, WA sharing my love of music and passion for the cello with aspiring cellists of all ages.

I encourage all my students to discover their own personal connection with the cello. Just as each instrument is unique, so is each student. It is my role as a teacher to respect and understand each student's strengths and weaknesses allowing me to develop a method that best suits each student. It is very important with the cello that technique is addressed first and foremost. String instruments require careful focus on technique to produce the tone quality desired and to move freely and efficiently around the instrument. Once proper technique is realized it is possible to begin to realize individual potential, enabling students the ability to create the sounds and express the emotions desired. Aural skills and a strong foundation of kinetic training play a large role in my teaching style. My background in composition also enhances my ability to look beyond the notes, and to focus on character, emotion and musicality.

I begin all of my students with the fundamentals covering much of the classical and traditional repertoire. I offer a diverse background that includes techniques, methodology and approaches to the instrument passed down from 1st and 2nd generations of some of today's great masters. It is my belief that with each generation comes exciting new possibilities and avenues for the evolution of the instrument. It is my responsibillity to give my students every opportunity to find their personal connection with the cello and to reach their goals and surpass their expectations. I know that with hard work, proper technique and intelligent practice my students will be limited only by their desire to succeed.

Aside from formal training I am also an advocate of improvisation. For more advanced cellists I offer a safe and encouraging environment in which to explore their creativity on the cello and to develop the aural skills needed to improvise. Music truly is the art of advanced listening and self expression.

I am a member of Washington State Music Teachers Association, ASCAP, the Seattle Composers Alliance, and the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. To read more about my professional background and experience please visit my biography.

“Music training helps build discipline, confidence, memory skills, artistry, creativity and self expression in students of all ages and all walks of life. It is a privilege for me to help you gain those skills and enjoy a lifelong love of music, wherever you decide to take your acquired skills. I look forward to embarking on the journey of music making with you!”

“Shaun Paul has an intelligent, communicative and understanding approach to the technical and
physical challenges in his teaching of the cello. He is a wonderful artist and performer in his own
right. I am convinced that students, of any age, would be enthralled and motivated with his instruction."

Judith Glyde
Professor, Cello & Chamber Music
Chair, String Faculty
University of Colorado College of Music