Teacher Daniela
As the renowned cellist Mstislav Rostropovich once said, “Teaching is the greatest act of optimism.” Through teaching, I not only have the opportunity to guide and support students, but also to help them discover their own voice through music and beyond.
How old were you when you started taking music lessons and what was your first instrument? I was nine years old when I started taking lessons with the Suzuki Method, but my professional training began when I moved to the United States at fourteen to study at Interlochen Arts Academy.
Who/what inspired you to become a musician and music teacher? I started playing the cello after listening to Yo-Yo Ma’s album Obrigado. I was fascinated by the way the cello could move so naturally between different musical genres, and to this day I strive to incorporate a wide variety of styles into my repertoire. It was not until college, when I first heard String Quartet No. 7 in F major, Op. 59 No. 1 by Ludwig van Beethoven, that I truly fell in love with chamber music. That experience also deepened my passion for teaching and for the collaborative connection that music creates between performers and students.
Who or what have been the most important influences on your musical life and career? My sister has been one of the greatest influences on my musical journey. I first became interested in the cello after watching her serve as concertmaster of a youth orchestra at such a young age, which deeply inspired me. Another important influence has been my mentor and former private teacher, Jennifer Culp, whose guidance and musical knowledge continue to shape me to this day. I am also inspired by the many female artists who continue to fight for their voices to be heard in an industry that is still striving toward greater equality. Their courage and artistry remind me of the power music has to express our beliefs, identities, and shared human experiences.
Tell us about your musical and teaching background. I am a cellist from Peru currently based in San Francisco, and I am passionate about chamber music, contemporary music, collaboration, and teaching. I have performed with the San Francisco Contemporary Music Players and SFJAZZ, and I am currently a member of the Alora String Quartet. I earned my Master’s degree in Cello Performance from the San Francisco Conservatory of Music under the guidance of Jennifer Culp. As a teacher, I love creating a supportive and inspiring environment where students feel encouraged to grow both technically and artistically. My passion for chamber music and collaboration has deeply influenced my teaching, and I strive to help students develop confidence, curiosity, creativity, and their own musical voice.
What are some memorable moments or experiences from your teaching career? One of the most rewarding aspects of teaching is the gratitude and connection that comes from sharing music with others. I see performing and teaching as a continuous cycle, where each experience deepens and inspires the other. As the renowned cellist Mstislav Rostropovich once said, “Teaching is the greatest act of optimism.” Through teaching, I not only have the opportunity to guide and support students, but also to help them discover their own voice through music and beyond. I hope to encourage students to open their ears and hearts to the beauty of music, and to experience how it can connect people and break barriers in ways that words often cannot.
How do you stay inspired and motivated in your musical journey? Inspiration and motivation are deeply connected to having a sense of purpose. Through both quartet performing and teaching, I continue to discover my long-term purpose: not only to create music, but to share it with others in meaningful ways, regardless of the project or setting. Whether performing on stage or working with students, I value the opportunity to connect, collaborate, and create experiences that bring people together through music.
Do you have important ideas and concepts to impart to aspiring musicians? NEVER GIVE UP. The road to success is always under construction, and perseverance and hard work are what ultimately make the path forward clearer over time. Challenges and setbacks are part of the journey, but dedication, patience, and passion are what continue to shape growth and success in the long term.
What do you love most about teaching? One of the most rewarding parts of teaching is sharing knowledge and creating meaningful, fun memories with students. I value the sense of growth and collaboration that comes from learning together, encouraging one another, and constantly striving to become the best versions of ourselves both as musicians and as people.
Do you have a practice tip you want to share with our students? Always come to lessons with an open mind. Even if you did not have enough time to prepare or practice, being willing to learn, listen, and try new ideas is what truly creates a valuable and productive lesson. Growth comes not only from perfection, but from curiosity, honesty, and the desire to keep improving.
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not teaching, practicing, or performing? Outside of music, I am a cat and plant mom. When I am not playing the cello, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my cat, going to the park, and taking care of my plants. These moments help me recharge and bring balance and joy into my daily life.