Graydon Linard
About
Hey there, I'm Graydon! I am a former School for Strings and Special Music School student, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra musician, Principal Cellist, and 3-time All-State orchestra musician. I help middle and high school musicians get a grasp on music theory, prepare for orchestra auditions and current repertoire.
Teaching Style
Cello
I believe every student learns differently, so I tailor each lesson to the individual's goals, experience level, and learning style. My lessons focus on building a strong technical foundation while making music enjoyable and rewarding. I emphasize healthy playing posture, tone production, intonation, rhythm, and musical expression from the very beginning.
Whether a student is preparing for school orchestra, All-State auditions, youth orchestra auditions, or simply learning for fun, I create a supportive environment that encourages confidence and consistent improvement. I also help students develop effective practice habits so they can make steady progress between lessons.
Music Theory
I teach music theory by connecting concepts directly to real music rather than relying solely on memorization. My goal is to help students understand why music works, making topics like scales, intervals, chords, harmony, rhythm, ear training, and analysis easier to grasp and apply.
Lessons are interactive and adapted to each student's background, whether they're studying for AP Music Theory, IB Music, school classes, auditions, or simply want to strengthen their musicianship. I encourage students to ask questions, think critically, and develop confidence in applying theory to performance, composition, and analysis.
Curriculum
Teaching Method
My lessons are individualized to each student's age, experience level, and goals. During lessons, I focus on developing strong fundamentals, including posture, hand position, bow technique, intonation, rhythm, tone production, and musical expression. Students receive clear practice strategies and constructive feedback to help them improve efficiently between lessons.
For more advanced students, lessons may include scales, etudes, orchestral excerpts, audition preparation, sight-reading, and performance coaching. I also incorporate music theory and ear training when appropriate to help students become well-rounded musicians.
For music theory students, I use a combination of written exercises, listening activities, score analysis, and practical applications at the keyboard or with their instrument. My goal is to help students understand concepts rather than simply memorize them.
Recommended Student Texts:
Cello
- Essential Elements for Strings (Book 1–3)
- Suzuki Cello School (Books 1–10, as appropriate)
- Schroeder Foundation Studies
- Feuillard Daily Exercises
- Popper High School of Cello Playing (advanced)
Music Theory
- AP Music Theory by Barron's (for AP students)
- IB Music Course Companion (for IB students)
- Musictheory.net (free online practice)
Credentials & Affiliations
I am a cellist with over 12 years of performance experience and currently serve as Principal Cellist of the North Atlanta High School Philharmonic and Virtuostic Orchestra. I began studying cello at the age of four and received my early training at the Special Music School in New York City under Alex Croxton.
I became a member of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra's Talent Development Program, where I studied with Karen Freer, Associate Principal Cellist of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. I have been selected to the Georgia All-State Orchestra for three consecutive years and have performed at Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, Jordan Hall at the New England Conservatory, and Merkin Hall at the Kaufman Music Center.
In addition to cello performance, I have extensive training in music theory and enjoy helping students build strong musicianship through a deeper understanding of music. I am currently a junior in the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme at North Atlanta High School.