About Suzanna Lee
A Korean-American cellist based in Irvine, California, Suzanna Lee is a conservatory-trained artist dedicated to the highest standards of classical performance and pedagogy. She began studying piano at the age of five and cello at the age of six. During her middle and high school years at the Orange County School of the Arts, she simultaneously engaged in conservatory-level studies at the Colburn Community School in Los Angeles.
Her educational foundation includes a Bachelor’s degree from the Peabody Institute of the Johns Hopkins University, as well as a Master’s degree and Artist Diploma from the University of Cincinnati College – Conservatory of Music.
Suzanna’s professional career is marked by prestigious roles and accolades, including serving as Co-Principal Cellist and holding a full-scholarship Graduate Assistantship. Her artistry has been recognized through numerous competition awards and featured in broadcast performances on KUSC. This depth of experience informs a teaching philosophy centered on technical precision, structured practice systems, and expressive musical interpretation.
She studied piano for seven years with Kyung Ja Bae while pursuing studies in cello. Her principal cello teachers include Richard Naill, Alison Wells, Yehuda Hanani, Amit Even-Tov, and Alan Stepansky. Suzanna performs on an 1877 Italian cello by Joseph Baldantoni of Ancona.
Suzanna Lee's Pedagogical Emphasis
Technical Foundations
The studio emphasizes a meticulous approach to physical technique. Students develop a robust foundation through focused study of posture, hand placement, and tonal production, ensuring longevity and ease in their musical journey.
Structured Practice
Excellence is built through disciplined, methodical work. Students are taught precise and efficient practice strategies that cultivate analytical thinking, technical refinement, and artistic independence—preparing them for the rigor of advanced ensembles and competitive performance environments.
Artistic Expression
Technical mastery serves the music. Students are guided to move beyond the notes, cultivating an authentic artistic voice and a deep sense of musical phrasing as they explore the profound expressive capacity of their instrument.
STUDENT OUTCOMES & DISTINCTIONS
Proven Results at the Highest Level
Students consistently earn placement in competitive orchestras, major competitions, and nationally recognized programs.
HONORS ORCHESTRAS
Pacific Symphony Santiago Strings
CODA High School All-State Symphony Orchestra
CODA High School All-State String Orchestra
CODA Junior High School All-State String Orchestra
CODA Junior High School All-State Concert Orchestra
IUSD Honors Orchestra
SCSBOA
COMPETITION DISTINCTIONS
Cal-ASTA Bowed Strings Competition
SYMF (Southwestern Youth Music Festival)
Musical Arts Competition of Orange County
Concordia Music Competition
program acceptances
Orange County School of the Arts
Colburn Academy Summer Intensive
Amici International Music Festival
Concordia University Summer Festival