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If you hire this pro, you’re covered by a money-back guarantee. Learn more
About
Hi! My name is Ava, a professional cellist based in Southern California. I’ve taught at the Wasatch School for the Arts in Colorado, run a private studio in NYC, and currently maintain a cello studio in San Diego.
Among my professional accolades are solo performances with orchestras in European cities from Budapest to Paris, chamber music festivals in 6 states, premiers of original compositions in Manhattan, and recitals alongside members of the Colorado and Utah Symphonies.
I earned my degree at the Lamont School of Music at the University of Denver, studying with International Soloist Matthew Zalkind, and previously studied under Utah Symphony cellist Pegsoon Whang and pedagogy mentor Alice Yoo.
I have experience teaching technical fundamentals, Suzuki Method, the standard cello repertoire, and Alexander technique- the fundamentals of holding the instrument. I believe in fostering a learning environment where students feel empowered to explore their potential through music and pursue projects they feel passionate about. I would love to explore with you!
My curriculum covers:
Ø Free consultation call and first lesson
Ø Sight-reading
Ø Ear training
Ø Fundamentals/Theory; Method
Ø Technical exercise (weekly) or Virtuosic Etude (intermediate through pre-professional)
Ø Classical repertoire
Ø Genre exploration (Exploring music in all genres from blues, jazz, rock, bluegrass, etc.)
Overview
Hired 6 times
Serves Poway, CA
Background checked
1 employee
10 years in business
Business hours
Sun12:00 am - 11:59 pmMon12:00 am - 11:59 pm
Payment methods
This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Venmo, and Zelle.
Customers rated this pro highly for value, professionalism, and work quality.
Exceptional 5.0
16 reviews
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Read reviews that mention:
David G.
Aug 25, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
Ava plays beautifully! We are so happy to have her been part of our wedding. We will definitely be having her be part of our future events.
Details: Wedding reception • 76 - 100 guests • 31 - 50 years old • Other strings • Other • Banquet hall / ballroom
Music Entertainment
Stephanie S.
Jun 30, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
She is amazing! As a musician I can tell you the quality of her work is top notch. Simply beautiful and made it the most beautiful night. She goes above and beyond and makes a single cello fill a space line it’s a whole orchestra. Thank you thank you on thank you for a night I will never forget.
Details: General event / party • 25 guests or fewer • 31 - 50 years old • Other strings • No preference • Other • Outdoors
Music Entertainment
Olivia w.
Jun 1, 2026
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Hired on Thumbtack
Amazing teacher. Incredibly knowledgeable, patient and professional! We have been working with Ava for a few months and truly have noticed remarkable improvement with our daughter’s cello playing. Highly recommend their services and cannot thank her enough for what she has done!!
Details: 10 - 13 years old • 0 - 2 yrs of formal training • Yes, the student can read music • Classical • Jazz • What the teacher recommends • Yes, the student has a cello • I'm flexible • At the pro’s location • My home, venue, etc. • Remotely (phone or internet)
Cello Lessons
luis D.
Aug 1, 2026
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From Google
I hired Ava to preform during my proposal and to provide ambiance for the afternoon with a custom playlist and she did not disappoint. Her rendition of the songs chosen was absolutely beautiful and memorable. We appreciate her for providing us with such an incredible experience and would definitely recommend her for any special occasion wether that be for a wedding, proposal or any other event that you may have. Her professionalism and attention to detail was unlike anyone else I have come across. Thank you once again for making our special day that much more memorable.
Stephanie S.
Jun 30, 2026
She is amazing! As a musician I can tell you the quality of her work is top notch. Simply beautiful and made it the most beautiful night. She goes above and beyond and makes a single cello fill a space line it’s a whole orchestra. Thank you thank you on thank you for a night I will never forget.
Credentials
Background Check
Ava Johnson
FAQs
What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
All trial lessons are free. I charge on a monthly basis.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
We have a trial lesson or zoom meeting to meet eachother and see how we work together, from there I will send you my studio policies and recital dates and we proceed to weekly cello lessons!
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I have a Bachelors of Music in Cello Performance as well as a Pedagogy certificate from the University of Denver.
