Viola Lessons
The Peterson School of Music viola program offers world-class instruction in the heart of Salt Lake City, nurturing your child’s musical talent while building confidence and teamwork. With access to recitals, masterclasses, and ensembles, students grow as musicians and individuals in a supportive, inspiring environment.
Enroll today and give your child the gift of music and excellence.
DIANA & JOEL PETERSON SCHOOL OF MUSIC
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH
Our approach
Unlock a world of musical possibilities with Viola lessons at Peterson School of Music in Salt Lake City. Our Viola program invites students to embark on a journey of artistic growth, where they are nurtured by our exceptional faculty and supported by a rich community of fellow musicians. From the first note, Viola students are immersed in a comprehensive curriculum designed to cultivate both technical mastery and a deep connection to the music they play.
The Viola is more than an instrument; it is a gateway to becoming part of a global and local community of musicians. Here, students are welcomed into a close-knit family of violists who share a passion for their craft. We encourage our students, no matter their age, to connect with the Utah Viola Society and the American Viola Society. These organizations offer unparalleled opportunities for personal and artistic development through recitals, masterclasses, workshops, and inspiring conferences.
At Peterson School of Music, our Viola students participate in group classes, recitals, masterclasses, and jury examinations. Through these opportunities, students not only refine their individual skills but also experience the unique and rewarding role of the violist—the inner voice of chamber and orchestral music. Whether performing in an ensemble or taking part in masterclasses with renowned artists, our students are constantly inspired to reach new heights.
A GIFTED MUSIC SCHOOL TRADITION
EST. 2008
What to expect
Weekly lessons
15 in the fall semester, 17 in the spring, with holiday breaks included
Summer
lessons
Flexible schedule, with a minimum of six lessons required to retain a spot in the studio
In-person format
While in-person lessons are preferred, remote lessons are available based on teacher discretion
Lesson durations
30, 45, and 60 minutes are common, with extended 75 or 90-minute lessons for advanced students
Studio recitals
Each semester includes a performance opportunity for students to showcase their progress
Who our lessons are for
We offer world-class training for students of all ages and levels, from young beginners to adults—our oldest student is 90!
Most of our programs are designed to support growth from preschool through high school graduation, we provide an integrated pathway for musical and personal development. Every program contributes to our goal of fostering future community leaders, engaged citizens, and passionate musicians.
What students will learn
Our viola students will embark on a comprehensive learning journey that builds both technical skill and musical artistry. From mastering proper bowing technique and finger placement to developing a strong sense of intonation and musical expression, our students receive personalized instruction that nurtures their growth at every stage.
Students will also learn essential ensemble skills through chamber music and orchestral participation, fostering teamwork and collaboration. With guidance from world-class faculty, they will deepen their understanding of music theory, and ear training to prepare them for a lifetime of musical excellence.
Lesson costs
Tuition for viola lessons varies depending on the instructor and the length of the lesson. Detailed tuition ranges by department are available here. This allows families to choose the best fit for their needs. The lesson package includes all regular lessons, studio recitals, and group performance opportunities, providing a well-rounded musical education.
Our school’s mission is to help as many students as possible experience the joy of music, regardless of financial constraints. We offer several need-based and merit-based scholarships. We would love to have you apply.
Meet the faculty
-
![]()
Dr. LeeAnn Morgan
Dr. LeeAnn Morgan, Director of Chamber Music Studies at Gifted Music School, is an accomplished violist with performances across Europe, the U.S., and Canada. A passionate advocate for new music, she has premiered several works and performed with renowned artists like Menahem Pressler. She has taught at Brigham Young University, the University of Washington, and the Academy of Music Northwest.
-
![]()
John T. Posadas
John T. Posadas, a member of the Utah Symphony, is an acclaimed violist and educator. He has performed at top venues like the Kennedy Center and with renowned orchestras such as the Boston Symphony. As a founding member of the Baumer String Quartet, he has won prestigious chamber music awards. He is also a sought-after teacher and clinician at institutions across North America.
-
![]()
Abby Dreher
Viola instructor and Project GRIT Manager, Abby Dreher, holds a Master’s in Viola Performance from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Abby has performed at festivals like Aspen and Banff and is dedicated to teaching and expanding access to music education through Gifted Music School’s outreach programs.
Frequently asked questions
Ready to learn more? See further details here, and don’t hesitate to reach out to discuss any additional questions. You can always find us at:
info@petersonschoolofmusic.org
(385) 222-7787
-
Signing up for lessons and classes is easy! Go to our new student registration page and fill out the form. You can choose from a variety of programs based on your interests and skill level. We will be in touch with you shortly after the form is completed. If you’re not sure where to start, feel free to contact us, and we’ll guide you in selecting the right program for you or your child.
-
We offer a range of programs designed to meet the needs of students at every level of their musical journey:
Conservatory: For serious students who gain admission through audition. Once admitted, students receive a full scholarship for all their classes.
Academy: High-level tuition-based lessons and classes open to students of all ages from the general community. Scholarships are available to help support aspiring musicians.
GRIT Program: Our comprehensive outreach program in Title I schools, bringing high-quality music education to underserved communities.
Young Composers Academy (YCA): Tuition-based Conservatory classes and opportunities that are available to the general public.
Suzuki Program: A part of the Preparatory Program, focused on string students using the renowned Suzuki method.
-
We combine a thoughtful, human-centered approach with clear communication and reliable results. It’s not just what we do—it’s how we do it that sets us apart.
-
Our school is home to an extraordinary team of faculty members and teachers, all of whom are accomplished musicians and dedicated educators. Our faculty bring a wealth of professional experience and expertise to their teaching, ensuring that students receive top-tier musical instruction. You can learn more about each instructor by visiting our faculty page, where you’ll find bios and details about their areas of specialization.
-
To apply to our Conservatory program, students must go through an audition process. This ensures that we select students who are committed to excelling in their musical studies. Information about audition dates and requirements can be found on our Conservatory Admissions page. If you have questions or need assistance during the application process, our admissions team is here to help.
-
Your support is vital to the success of our programs and the growth of our students. To make a donation or learn more about the different ways you can contribute, please visit the donate page on our website. Donations go toward scholarships, outreach programs, and other initiatives that make high-quality music education accessible to all.
“We feel lucky to have found this school two years ago. At first, our kids were just in children’s choir, but we later added voice, violin, and piano lessons. All the teachers are top notch!”
Anna Taylor
PSM Parent