The cello is the lowest instrument in the orchestral string section, except for the double bass. It is played with a bow and creates a warm, mellow tone which is highly lyrical in nature.

Students of the cello focus on orchestral repertoire, traditional music theory, and performance practice in addition to their physical technique on the instrument.

Cello students at the Renaissance School of Music have an opportunity to perform in our bi-annual student recitals.

Jeff Hamacher

Jeff has been teaching at Renaissance since September 2006. He took up the cello at the age of nine, and began private instruction by 16. After graduating from the Etobicoke School for the Arts, he attended the University of Western Ontario's Faculty of Music, where he studied under Malcolm Tait. He obtained an Honours Bachelor of Music (Music Education) degree in 1993, and subsequently obtained a Bachelor of Education degree at the University of Windsor in 1994. Jeff was a member of the National Youth Orchestra of Canada in 1995. After several years spent teaching foreign languages overseas, he returned to Canada in 2003. He obtained a Master of Education degree at Queen's University in 2007. He has started performing with the Kingston Symphony, in addition to various community ensembles.

Following a "traditional" approach, Jeff balances music reading, technique, repertoire and physical care of the body with an eye to developing the student as a well-rounded musician. He places particular emphasis on helping students find the healthiest and most efficient ways of playing the instrument, not simply to promote good technique, but also to provide the freedom to explore the musical and emotional aspects of the material that students are learning.