Teacher Profile: Katherine Hales

About Katherine Hales

Kate Hales began her music studies with the violin at age four. When she was nine, she began studying viola, which became her passion. With her training in classical music, Kate has participated in several orchestras, including Wasatch Mountain Camerata, Young Artist Chamber Players, Gifted Music School Orchestra, as well as several summer festival orchestras, in addition to regular participation in smaller chamber ensemble's. As a student of James Dunham at Rice University's Shepherd School of Music, Kate is currently a member of the Rice Symphony Orchestra, as well as a participant in many other performance opportunities. Throughout her music career, Kate has been awarded several honors and distinctions, including being selected as a soloist in the Utah Symphony's 53rd annual Salute to Youth concert and 2nd place in the University of Utah Chamber Music Competition. In addition to playing in groups, she regularly performs solo repertoire.

While Kate enjoys performing, her true passion lies in teaching. She began teaching violin and viola lessons while in high school, students ranging from beginners to intermediate players. She enjoys the creative process of discovering the talents and strengths of each student, and composing a curriculum specific to the needs and goals of that particular student. Having been greatly influenced by the teachers in her own life, Kate hopes to foster a love for music and a positive outlook in those she teaches.

When she isn't practicing or teaching, Kate enjoys singing jazz, watching musicals and reading classic literature.