Iliana Fernandez is a graduate of George Mason University with a dual Bachelor of Arts in Music and Psychology. While at Mason, she performed with the Mason Symphony Orchestra, Mason Chamber Orchestra, in various chamber ensembles, and held her senior viola recital at Jammin’ Java, a premier local music venue. Iliana is also involved in directing Noteworthy, George Mason’s only all-female a cappella group and arranging a portion of their repertoire. She is now attending Shenandoah University’s prestigious music conservatory, for their Professional Studies Program for Music Therapy Certification.
Iliana has been teaching private lessons for violin and viola for six years and playing for over 16 years. When she is not teaching, she currently plays at special events in various ensembles, as well as in her viola and guitar duet group called iliandi. Iliana understands and emphasizes healthy playing technique, developing relevant performance skills, and a flexibility to incorporate student-driven goals to ensure satisfaction with their progress. Iliana looks forward to helping each student tap into their musical abilities and learn to love playing.
Jennifer Bockstege Violin, Viola
Jennifer Bockstege received her Bachelor's Degree in Viola Performance from Hope College in 2009. She received both her Master's Degree in Viola Performance and Post Masters Certificate in Viola Performance from DePaul University respectively in 2011 and 2013. She has played with the Muskegon Symphony Orchestra, Holland Symphony Orchestra and Northwestern University, as well as the contemporary ensemble "20+." Since moving to the Washington D.C. area in 2015 she has played with the Ars Nova Chamber Orchestra (a self conducted ensemble), the Manassas Ballet Company, the Pro Arte Chamber Orchestra of Greater Washington and the Loudoun Symphony Orchestra.
Jennifer has taught private viola lessons, as well as elementary, middle and high school orchestras in Fairfax County Public Schools. Her past teachers include Susan Bearden (Principal, Brevard Symphony Orchestra), Carey Moorman (Concertmaster, Space Coast Symphony), Barbara Corbato (Principal, Grand Rapids Symphony), Richard Piippo (Principal, Detroit Symphony), Cliff Colnot and Michael Lewanski (DePaul University) and Rami Solomonov (Principal, Lyric Opera of Chicago).
