Andrew Knebel
Viola
Year you joined the ECSO: 2008
Andrew Knebel is a graduate of the Hartt School of Music/University of Hartford where he was a student of Steve Larson. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in viola performance and music education. He has participated in master classes with John Largess (Miro SQ), Chauncey Patterson (Miami SQ), and Heidi Castleman. In addition to teaching violin at 4 schools in southwestern CT, Andrew is a member of the Eastern CT Symphony in New London, CT, freelances on viola and violin in Connecticut and New York and teaches privately. He has also taught with the Hartt String Project and Project Music. He is on faculty at Summertrios and The Lake Placid Chamber Seminar. He has also taught at The Young People’s Institute for Chamber Music. He is also a member of Quartetto Vivo and has played with The Living Room Players, the Spectrum String Quartet, and the Rocio String Quartet.
Hidden talent(s):I was on Jeopardy.
Favorite Musical Memory:There are so many to choose from, but the first time I played Dvorak’s New World Symphony in an orchestra in high school was an inspiring moment for me and helped me decide that music would be a career for me.
Favorite Motto or Quote:Always be positive!
Favorite Composer:Brahms
What/Who inspired you to take up your instrument:My elementary school strings teacher came around in third grade to sign students up for orchestra. I wanted to take an instrument, but I knew violin was going to be popular and I didn’t want to carry around a cello or bass, so I chose the one instrument that I had no idea about, the viola! That was a great choice and I haven’t put it down since 3rd grade!