Kathleen Gallagher-McLellan | East Sacramento

Kathleen Gallagher-McLellan brings a unique, heartfelt approach to violin and viola instruction—shaped by her own journey from enthusiastic Suzuki student to accomplished performer and sought-after teacher. She believes in creating a studio environment where students not only grow as musicians but also thrive as confident, curious individuals.

A Musical Journey Rooted in Suzuki

Kathleen’s violin journey began at age five after she declared to anyone who would listen, “I’m going to play the violin one day!” Thankfully, her mom took the hint—and her path with the Suzuki Method began. This early exposure to Suzuki’s philosophy continues to influence her teaching style: nurturing, structured, and grounded in love for the instrument.

Today, Kathleen’s mission is to provide a holistic, supportive learning space where students ages 3–18 build musical skill through listening, repetition, and mindful technique. She emphasizes body awareness, personal expression, and joy in the learning process.

Education & Performance Background

Kathleen studied at prestigious institutions across the U.S. and Europe. Her training includes:

• Interlochen Arts Academy, Michigan – Studied with Hal Grossman; served as Concertmaster; received the Distinguished Violin Award

• Eastman School of Music, New York – Studied with Frank Huang; performed in a chamber quartet coached by the Ying Quartet

• California State University, Sacramento – Bachelor’s in Violin Performance; studied with Anna Presler; served as Concertmaster and violin teaching assistant

Her performance career includes appearances throughout Austria, Hungary, and the United States.

Suzuki Training & Teaching Philosophy

Inspired by her early Suzuki experiences, Kathleen returned to the method as an adult and completed extensive teacher training. She is fully certified in Suzuki Books 1–10 through the Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA) and was awarded the Distinguished Young Teacher Award.

Her teaching focuses on:

• Healthy posture and body alignment

• Developing tone and technique through natural movement

• Fostering musicality and personal expression

• Creating a supportive, inclusive studio culture

• Encouraging growth mindset and resilience

Kathleen teaches both private lessons and group classes in East Sacramento.

Performance & Professional Affiliations

Kathleen is an active performer and educator in Northern California’s vibrant classical music scene. She performs regularly with regional ensembles and serves in multiple leadership and teaching roles, including:

• Associate Concertmaster – Auburn Symphony, Camerata California, Modesto Opera

• Section Violinist – Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera, Sacramento Choral Society, Vallejo Symphony, Music in the Mountains

• Summer Festival Violinist – Bear Valley Music Festival

• Applied Violin Instructor – Consumnes River College

She is a proud member of:

• Suzuki Association of the Americas (SAA)

• Suzuki Music Association of California

• Suzuki Association of Northern California

• American String Teachers Association (ASTA)

• American Federation of Musicians, Local 12

Research & Conference Presentations

Kathleen is also an active contributor to the music education community. Her recent presentations include:

• "Fostering Self-Evaluation and Program Assessment" – ASTA National Conference, Orlando (2023)

• "Gravity: Tools for Tone Development" – ASTA & SAA Conference, Louisville (2024), co-presented with Elena Bolha

Life Beyond the Studio

In addition to her work as a violinist, educator, and researcher, Kathleen is also an entrepreneur, running a thriving private music studio in East Sacramento. Outside of music, you’ll find her gardening, exploring the outdoors, reading novels, or enjoying a perfect cup of coffee. She shares her life with her husband and their lovable chocolate lab, Jemma.