Violin at Penn State

The Penn State violin studio welcomes a vibrant and diverse community of students – undergraduate and graduate, majors and minors, from across the country and around the globe – united by a shared passion for music and a commitment to artistic growth. Whether your goal is to become a professional performer, music educator, or lifelong musician, you’ll find a supportive and challenging environment that nurtures your individual path.

Led by Professors James Lyon and Max Zorin, students benefit from abundant performance opportunities as soloists and ensemble players through weekly studio classes, common hour performances, chamber music, and formal recitals. Resident instruction is regularly enriched by masterclasses with distinguished guest artists, including Phil Setzer (Emerson String Quartet), Edward Dusinberre (Takács Quartet), David Harrington (Kronos Quartet), members of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, and faculty from premier institutions.

Penn State violin graduates go on to perform with professional orchestras, pursue advanced studies at leading conservatories, teach at all levels, and contribute to the musical world in creative and entrepreneurial ways.

We invite you to visit the School of Music, meet our faculty and students, and explore the opportunities that await you here. A free introductory lesson is available to all interested prospective students – we look forward to hearing your playing and helping you take the next step on your musical journey.