Jezreel Houtz
About
Jezreel Houtz is an award-winning cellist and online private cello teacher. Within just three years of learning the cello, he performed as a soloist with the CKYO Symphony Orchestra. He has also won competitions including the BorchardtConcerto Competition and was named a finalist in the Hilton Head Concerto Competition.
Jezreel studied with renowned cellist Suren Bagratuni (1986 Tchaikovsky Competition silver medalist), as well as other exceptional teachers including Dr. Nathan Jasinski (EKU), Sean Hawthorne (ETSU), and Nicola Rohr (Fayette County Schools Orchestra foundation of his artistry and fueled his passion for teaching.
As a teacher, Jezreel is known for his creative approach. He continually develops new methods to help students practice more effectively, improve faster, and achieve a richer sound.
Teaching Style
Jezreel focuses on helping students master the technique needed to produce the rich, expressive sound they desire. With a strong emphasis on precise intonation, bow control, posture, and tension-free playing, he guides players toward confident, beautiful results.
He is deeply committed to the mental aspects of learning and works closely with students to overcome perfectionism so it does not hinder their growth. Jezreel creates a supportive, patient environment where students feel encouraged to take risks and improve.
He welcomes cellists of all levels and tailors lessons to each individual’s unique needs and goals.
Dedicated students who show genuine eagerness and consistent effort often receive generous extra time and guidance from him.
Jezreel truly enjoys helping every student reach their potential.
Curriculum
Jezreel uses the Suzuki method as the foundation for his teaching, combined with a strong emphasis on proper technique from the very beginning. He focuses on helping students master the skills needed to produce the rich, expressive sound they desire. With careful attention to precise intonation, bow control, posture, and tension-free playing, he ensures students build solid fundamentals early so they avoid developing bad habits. This thoughtful, step-by-step approach helps players progress confidently and musically.
Credentials & Affiliations
Jezreel studied with renowned cellist Suren Bagratuni (1986 Tchaikovsky Competition silver medalist), as well as other exceptional teachers including Dr. Nathan Jasinski (EKU), Sean Hawthorne (ETSU), and Nicola Rohr (Fayette County Schools Orchestra foundation of his artistry and fueled his passion for teaching.
- Winner of 2020 Borchardt Concerto Competition
- Finalist in 2020 Hilton Head Concerto Competition
- Performed Haydn's Cello Concerto in C Major as a Soloist with CKYO in February 2020

