Rachel Ellis

Rachel Ellis is currently a second-year full-scholarship graduate student in the Performance Diploma Program at SMU, studying with Andres Diaz. She graduated summa cum laude from Rowan University with a Bachelor of Music in Cello Performance, studying with Dr. George Atanasiu. A winner of the 2013 Soloists Competition, Rachel performed Schumann Cello Concerto with the Rowan University orchestra, and was also the principal cellist for four years. She participated in festivals in Orvieto, Italy with directors George Atanasiu and Lenuta Ciulei and also performed in masterclasses with Nicholae Sarpe, David Kim and Sungsic Yang. Rachel completed Book 1 training with Susan Gagnon at the Memphis Suzuki Institute, Books 2 and 3 with Barbara Wampner at the Chicago Suzuki Institute, and Books 4 and 5 with Beth Goldstein-McKee at the Pittsburgh Suzuki Institute. Rachel enjoys teaching and holds live and online lessons via Facetime or Zoom.