Ellen Hacker
Saint Paul, MN
Violinist | Violist | Accompanist | Teacher
About Me
Hello, and welcome to my website! I am an active freelance musician and educator in the Twin Cities Metro area. I maintain a private studio in the Mac- Groveland neighborhood of St. Paul, and I am on faculty at the St. Paul Conservatory of Music.
I have prioritized becoming the best teacher I can be. I hold a Bachelor of Music degree in Instrumental Music Education from St. Olaf College and a Master’s of Music degree in Violin Performance & String Pedagogy from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. I previously taught Orchestra in the public schools, and I maintain my MN K-12 Music Education Teaching License. I am a trained educator with 10+ years of experience, and this background gives me the tools to confidently work with students of all ages and backgrounds.
My musical career includes performances with Artistry Theater, Theater Latté Da, Old Log Theater, Yellow Tree Theater, Mankato Symphony, Metropolitan Symphony Orchestra, The Apollo Club, and Michael Bublé. I am a member of the Lux String Quartet, an ensemble dedicated to performing recitals and presenting educational workshops in schools across Minnesota. I am also a founding member of The Watercress Trio.
In addition to freelancing and teaching violin and viola, I serve as Organist & Accompanist at the Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in St. Paul.
Why take lessons with me?
Ensemble Opportunities
I enjoy teaching private lessons, but also really encourage all my students to participate in a group/ensemble experience. I can organize these ensemble opportunities. Students’ progress with supplemental group instruction is undeniable and makes for happier home practice.
Your Teacher is your Accompanist
I am an accomplished keyboardist and accompany my own students in lessons, recitals, and auditions. Performing with my students is one of my greatest joys as a teacher and it sets them up for more confident performances.
Audition Prep
I have years of experience auditioning, rehearsing, and conducting orchestras. I know what the judging panel is listening for in auditions and I use this knowledge to confidently prepare my students to play their best, especially under nerve-racking circumstances.
What parents are saying
“In addition to her extensive knowledge of violin and viola pedagogy, repertoire, and learning/performance opportunities outside of her studio – not to mention her impressive playing skills on viola, violin, and piano – Ellen approaches teaching with warmth and good humor.”
-J.M., parent
When I’m not teaching, you can find me at the Minnehaha Dog Park with my little guy, Leo!
Ellen Hacker Music -- Violin & Viola Lessons in Twin Cities Metro 