Galatea Chamber Music Mentors Logo

Where integrity, passion, and inspiration converge.

A young student in a lesson with a mentor

Our Philosophy

Nurturing the self-worth of each student allows them to reach their highest potential and cultivate a strong sense of self, empowering them to overcome every obstacle in their path.
A student performing on stage
Dr. Johnathan Spence

Meet Dr. Johnathan Spence (violin/viola)
Virginia Beach and Chesapeake, VA

Discovering the magic of the violin at the age of ten had a profound impact on his life and artistic trajectory. Since that day, it's always been about the music and the love behind it all. Beyond his passion for chamber music, he has an innate gift for inspiring and guiding musicians of all ages, initiating them into their greatest form.

With a desire to create a community for fellow musicians, he offers mentorship through private lessons, chamber music coaching, studio classes, student recitals, faculty concerts, and an immersive summer program. Request a free trial lesson to experience the value of having a chamber musician as your mentor.

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Locations

Eastminster Presbyterian Church

Eastminster Presbyterian Church
3229 Macdonald Rd
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
St. Thomas Episcopal Church

St. Thomas Episcopal Church
233 Mann Dr
Chesapeake, VA 23322
Dr. Hoorig Poochikian

Meet Dr. Hoorig Poochikian (violin)
North Bethesda, MD

Armenian-American violinist Hoorig Taline Poochikian began playing the violin at the age of six, learning from her mother, whose guidance ignited her lifelong passion for music. A passionate teacher and devoted musician, Hoorig is deeply connected to her violin and the joy of chamber music. Through private lessons and Galatea's immersive summer program, she helps students grow both musically and personally, building their confidence and artistic voice. Based in the DC metro area, Hoorig continues to inspire as a private instructor, sharing her expertise and love for music with the next generation of musicians.

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St. Mark Presbyterian Church

Location


Saint Mark Presbyterian
10701 Old Georgetown Road
North Bethesda, Maryland 20852
Emma Hayes Johnson

Meet Emma Johnson (cello)
North Bethesda, MD

Cellist Emma Hays Johnson is a passionate educator and performer committed to sharing the beauty and depth of music. As a private instructor and mentor of Galatea's immersive summer program, she fosters a nurturing environment where students can grow both technically and artistically. Emma’s warm, supportive approach has made her a beloved teacher, inspiring students to connect deeply with their instruments and the music they play. When she's not teaching or performing, Emma enjoys outdoor adventures like rock climbing and backpacking, finding joy in nature’s challenges and beauty.

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St. Mark Presbyterian Church

Location


Saint Mark Presbyterian
10701 Old Georgetown Road
North Bethesda, Maryland 20852
Dr. Dave Phillips

Meet Dr. Dave Phillips (viola/violin)
Greensboro, NC

Dave Phillips is a passionate and engaging teacher, dedicated to mentoring students both in private lessons and through Galatea’s summer chamber music program. With a wealth of experience in performance and chamber music, he brings energy and life lessons into the classroom, inspiring students to grow as both musicians and individuals. Dave’s teaching goes beyond technique, focusing on building confidence and musicality while encouraging personal development. He continues to inspire the next generation of violists with his commitment and enthusiasm.

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Lessons are available at the mentor's home or at the student's location, offering flexibility to suit your preferences.

Pricing

Each mentor practices their own policies - please inquire below for more information.

30 minutes

30 minute private lesson

Young children or beginners

$50

per session

Book a session
45 minutes

45 minute private lesson

Ages 8+ and Adult Beginners

$75

per session

Book a session
60 minutes

60 minute private lesson

Ages 12+ and Musicians

$100

per session

Book a session

Trial Lesson Inquiry

To ensure that each student's needs are met, we provide everyone a free trial lesson. This way, you can decide if it's the right fit for your development.
If you have any questions please reach out to us here: mentors@galateacm.com
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