Olivia J. Thompson

Olivia Thompson has always been fascinated by all things violin. At age 3, she began studying the violin with Jane Mensel. After completing all 10 Suzuki books, she studied with Jack Ashton of the Utah Symphony. Afterwards, she attended Utah State University, where she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Violin Performance as a student of Rebecca McFaul, founder of the Fry Street Quartet. Olivia earned her Master’s Degree in Violin Performance & Pedagogy from the University of Utah, where she was the Concertmaster of the Utah Philharmonia and a member of the Michie Graduate String Quartet.

Olivia is a passionate musician and teacher with a thriving studio. Her students enjoy participating in regular group classes where they learn about classical composers and enjoy sweet treats. Recent classes include “Bach and Brownies,” “Paganini and Popsicles,” and “Tchaikovsky and Chocolate.”

Olivia knows that learning to play an instrument should be fun! She loves teaching her students fiddle music. For 3 years, Olivia performed in a country band in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, and she enjoys holding an annual “Fiddle Fest” with her students each summer. Olivia’s students also participate in a yearly “Movie Music” concert, when each student performs a song from their favorite movie. The Suzuki curriculum is an incredibly important part of learning to play an instrument, and Olivia’s students enjoy the sense of achievement they gain from studying the Suzuki books. Olivia is a prominent violin teacher in the Salt Lake Valley and beyond, passionate about helping students discover their own voice and gain confidence and courage as lifelong learners.