Meet the string Staff

Eric graduated from Rutgers University: Mason Gross School of Arts with a degree in Viola Performance. He studied under Lark Quartet Violist, Kathryn Lockwood and Philadelphia Orchestra principal Violist C.J Chang. Has been studying music since the age of 5, starting with Violin and then Piano at the age of 7, and switching to Viola prior to college. Eric has extensive experience with NJ Regional and All-State auditions, and has attended the International Chamber Music Course Festival in China and Italy. Eric has several years of experience teaching music using an adaptive and holistic approach. He has also had success teaching students with physical and mental disabilities using violin and piano as a source of physical therapy. He also has experience preparing students for advanced orchestra auditions and chamber group auditions in public schools. Having been engrossed in music for over two decades, he is always eager to share his experiences.

Ari Fiekowsky is a cellist and music educator with nearly two decades of orchestral experience. He graduated summa cum laude from Kean University with a BFA in K-12 Music Education, concentrating in instrumental music.

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An active performer, Ari is a member of the Summit Symphony Orchestra, Monmouth Symphony Orchestra, Brick City Quartet, and Nate Williams Ensemble. He has also performed extensively in musical theater productions, including Les Misérables, Into the Woods, Little Women, and The Last Five Years. Ari brings his background as both an educator and professional musician into his lessons, helping students build strong musical foundations while developing confidence and a genuine enjoyment of playing.

Kara Bohorquez is a graduate of Montclair State University, John J. Cali School of Music with a BA in classical Bass performance. She has performed at Carnegie Hall 6 times with prestigious artists such as Sarah McLachlan and James Galway. In addition to her classical studies, Kara has also been trained in other styles of music, particularly jazz, and has taken up a variety of instruments. 

Kara is equipped to teach upright Bass, electric Bass, Piano, Guitar, Vocals and theory. Kara has toured the country with NJ Break Contest winners, “Wyland,” and even headlined events such as the Skate and Surf Music Festival. With her experience in performing, 

Kara specializes not only in teaching instruments but also helping her students build up the confidence to either play for an audience or to just discover their passion for music.