Our Violin and Viola Teachers

Lauren Huen

In her role as a violin teacher at Inspire Music Academy, Lauren is committed to fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment that encourages growth and creativity. With a holistic approach to teaching, she emphasizes the importance of both physical and mental well-being, incorporating warm-up routines and intentional practice techniques into her lessons. Additionally, Lauren believes in cultivating well-rounded musicians by exposing her students to a variety of musical genres and opportunities for ensemble playing. Above all, her goal is to instill a sense of joy and confidence in her students, ensuring that they not only excel in their musical endeavors but also find fulfillment and pride in their accomplishments as violinists.

Now accepting new students for Thursday and Friday afternoons and evenings.

Lauren Huen is a passionate violinist hailing from the vibrant Bay Area, where she has immersed herself in music for over 13 years. Her musical journey has taken her across the United States and Japan, performing in a diverse array of ensembles, from classical string quartets to experimental heavy metal orchestras. A graduate of the University of the Pacific, Lauren holds a Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance and a Bachelor of Science in Health, Exercise, and Sports Science. Under the tutelage of esteemed mentors such as Nancy Mitchell, Ann Miller, Igor Veligan, and Jennifer Cho, she has developed a deep understanding of both the artistry and physicality of music.

Walter von Schnellbacher Schumann

As a violin and viola teacher, I believe that music is both a profound art form and a transformative journey of personal growth. My teaching blends technical mastery with expressive communication, always linking disciplined practice to artistic purpose. I emphasize a strong technical foundation—grounded in healthy posture, efficient movement, and mindful repetition—so students can play with both freedom and intention. From Baroque to contemporary repertoire, I guide students in developing stylistic awareness and their own interpretive voice, fostering a balance between tradition and creativity. I view the teacher-student relationship as a collaborative partnership built on trust, encouragement, and mutual respect. Through clear communication, individualized instruction, and a nurturing environment, I help students grow not only as musicians but also as confident, resilient individuals. My ultimate goal is to inspire students to connect deeply with their music and to carry its values—discipline, empathy, and joy—into every aspect of their lives.

Conductor, composer, and violinist/violist Walter von Schnellbacher Schumann brings a wealth of international experience to his teaching, having performed and taught in over 28 countries across Europe, North America, and the Middle East. With dual master’s degrees in Violin and Viola Performance, Orchestral and Choral Conducting, and Music Theory/Composition, Mr. Schumann combines deep academic achievement with an exceptional artistic pedigree. He studied under esteemed pedagogues connected to legendary figures such as David Oistrakh, Carl Flesch, and Leopold Auer, inheriting and passing on the refined traditions of the great European violin schools. As an educator with over two decades of experience, he is known for his holistic approach, integrating technical precision, stylistic understanding, and expressive artistry. Mr. Schumann continues to perform, teach, and mentor worldwide, offering his students both a direct link to classical music’s most influential traditions and the tools to thrive in today’s diverse musical world.