Sergio Ravelo

Hello! I'm Sergio, a violinist and dedicated music educator with teaching and performance experience in both Colombia and the United States. I enjoy helping students of all ages and levels develop confidence, solid technique, and a genuine love for music.

I earned my Bachelor of Music in Violin Performance in 2019 from Universidad del Valle in Cali, Colombia, where I studied with violinist Diana Rodríguez. I am currently completing my Master of Music in Violin Performance at Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois, where I have studied with Dr. Igor Kalnin. During my graduate studies, I have also had the opportunity to participate in masterclasses and international music festivals, including the Campos do Jordão International Winter Festival in Brazil in 2022, where I studied with Claudio Micheletti, Maria Fernanda Krug, and Carmelo de los Santos, and the Music Festival of Esmeraldas in Ecuador in 2022, where I studied with Nancy Zhou and Markus Placci. I have also participated in masterclasses with artists including Aisha Syed, Adrián Chamorro, Martina Trumpp, among others.

As a performer, I have been active in orchestral and chamber music throughout my career. I have performed as a violinist with the Cali Philharmonic Orchestra in Colombia and with the Millikin Decatur Symphony Orchestra in Illinois, as well as with university orchestras, chamber ensembles, and the Symphony Orchestra of Universidad del Valle. I have also performed chamber music as a member of String Quartet Rayo in Colombia. These experiences have given me a broad perspective on both individual musicianship and ensemble playing.

My teaching experience includes working with students in private lessons, small groups, and large ensembles. From 2023 to 2025, I taught violin through the Illinois State University String Project, working with young musicians in private and group instruction. From 2025 to 2026, I worked as a High Instructor at Ravinia's ReachTeachPlay program, teaching violin and viola at G. R. Clark Elementary School and serving as a conductor and ensemble instructor. Through these experiences, I have worked with students of different ages and levels and have developed an approach that combines technical development with musicality, creativity, and confidence.

My lessons are personalized to each student's goals, whether you're a complete beginner, returning to the violin, or preparing for auditions and performances. I focus on healthy technique, tone production, intonation, rhythm, musical expression, and effective practice strategies that lead to steady, lasting progress.

I strive to create a positive and encouraging learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and growing as musicians. Whether you're learning for fun or pursuing serious musical goals, I'd be happy to help you on your musical journey.

I believe every student learns differently, so I tailor each lesson to their individual goals, learning style, and experience level. My teaching combines a structured approach with a supportive and encouraging atmosphere.

Beyond technique and musical expression, I emphasize how the body works together with music. I help students develop healthy posture, efficient movement, and body awareness so they can play with greater ease, reduce unnecessary tension, and build sustainable habits for long-term growth.

My goal is not only to help students play better, but also to help them understand how to practice efficiently, move naturally, and enjoy making music with confidence.