🎶 Hello There, Future (or Current) Cellist! 🎶

Hi, I'm Naomi, and I'm so excited you're here! 

Do you have a cello gathering dust in the closet, or are you a more experienced player preparing for an audition? Either way, I'm happy to help you achieve your goals. I teach students of all ages and levels, from five-year-old beginners to retired hobbyists. Everyone is welcome!

My teaching philosophy revolves around patience, persistence, and positivity, and I tailor lessons to fit the individual. As my student, you can expect to develop excellent technique, increase your theory and history knowledge, and expand your musical palette.

I offer in-person lessons at my home in San Francisco, remote lessons, and hybrid lessons (a combination of in-person and remote lessons). To apply for a free 20-minute trial lesson, please fill out the application linked below. 

About Me

Naomi Stoodley is a cello teacher and performing artist based in San Francisco, California. Having graduated with honors from the University of California, Santa Barbara, Ms. Stoodley holds B.M. and M.M. degrees in cello performance. As a student, Ms. Stoodley served as the teaching assistant for the cello and music appreciation courses. In addition, she performed as a member of the distinguished Young Artists String Quartet (YASQ). Not only has Ms. Stoodley played in masterclasses led by renowned cellists, such as Ben Hong and Steven Isserlis, but she has also performed at prestigious venues, including Walt Disney Concert Hall. Before relocating to the Bay Area, Ms. Stoodley could be heard playing in the San Luis Obispo Symphony, Santa Maria Philharmonic, Symphony of the Vines, Santa Barbara Chamber Players, Lompoc Pops Orchestra, and more.


Ms. Stoodley is a dedicated member of the American String Teachers Association (ASTA) and the Music Teachers' Association of California (MTAC). She instructs cellists of all ages and levels, and her students have received principal chair in their advanced school orchestras and earned outstanding scores on Certificate of Merit™ performance evaluations and theory exams. Throughout the year, Ms. Stoodley's students have the opportunity to perform in numerous MTAC competitions, masterclasses, and recitals, as well as studio events. 

View Full Resume


Latest News

June 22, 2023

Long Tone Challenge 2023 Results:

Brian - Longest Long Tone, Most Improved

Philip - Best Tone

Congratulations, Brian and Philip!

June 5, 2021

Nicola was awarded Most Improved for the 2020-2021 school year at Ventura High School. Congratulations!

March 24, 2021

Congratulations to Brian, Brynne, Sarah, and Victoria for successfully passing their Certificate of Merit™ evaluations! All four students received Branch Honors, State Honors, and near-perfect scores on their theory tests. 

July 31, 2020

All four students who participated in Certificate of Merit™ received performance scores in the highest range--congratulations, Brian, Brynne, Sarah, and Victoria! Brian also earned a perfect score on his theory exam (level 2). 

See More News