Emma Dunbar

Violin

Emma Dunbar is an engaging music educator and performer, passionate about sharing music
with students and audiences of all ages. Emma attributes her zeal for music to her early
experiences teaching students in rural Alberta. This formative time shaped her teaching
philosophy, leading her to view teaching as a precious privilege: an opportunity to introduce each
student to the beauty of music and the fascinating process of learning.
Emma has been teaching violin/viola, piano and theory professionally since 2015; preparing
students for recitals, festivals, auditions, exams or exploring musical interests for enjoyment. In
lessons, Emma strives to foster a love of music often utilizing various styles including classical,
pop, anime, jazz, hymns, worship music, chording, and fiddle. While Emma emphasizes
technical refinement and effective practicing, her foremost goal is to keep lessons simple and
fun, taking into account the interests and personality of each student. With this flexible approach,
Emma’s students develop a solid foundation from which to enjoy the creative process, enabling
them to confidently explore songs they love.
Emma’s own early music training was guided by Fiona Carnie, Colleen Athparia and Jean
Auger-Crowe. After completing her Associate Diploma with the Royal Conservatory of Toronto
(ARCT), she studied at Wilfrid Laurier University with Christine Vlajk and Jerzy Kaplanek,
earning a Bachelors of Music Performance and a Diploma in Chamber Music. During this time,
Emma also became an accredited Suzuki teacher, through long-term teacher training with Paule
Barsalou. Most recently, Emma completed her Masters in Music at the University of Ottawa with
Michael van der Sloot. And to further her performance and pedagogy training, Emma is currently
pursuing an Artistic Diploma at The Glenn Gould School, studying with Steven Dann.
As a performer, Emma has competed and performed in various orchestras, competitions and
festivals across Canada and the United States. Often, these opportunities include orchestral
leadership positions from concertmaster to principal violist. Most recently, she took on such roles
at the Banff Centre for Art & Creativity and Festival Napa Valley. As an active freelancer, Emma
enjoys many additional forms of collaboration from accompanying her students to free
improvisation jams to organizing chamber recitals. For whether teaching or performing, Emma
finds her motivation and drive through sharing the excitement of music with her community.