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Faculty Spotlight: Andrea Houde

Andrea Houde

Name: Andrea Houde

Title: Assistant Professor of Viola

What classes do you teach? 

Primarily I teach applied viola lessons to undergraduate and graduate viola students of all levels. However, I also have the pleasure of coaching chamber music ensembles and teaching undergraduate and graduate courses in viola pedagogy and repertoire. Most of my mornings also start off with one of my favorite classes: String Pedagogy, which is where I work with future music educators to share the secrets of how to play and teach the violin and viola.

What advice do you have for students wanting to take your classes, or in general, classes in the College of Creative Arts?

Musicians and artists work HARD! It takes discipline, diligence, and perseverance to learn the skills needed to succeed in this business. During all of that work, fortunately, we do have fun along the way. In the process, we create special bonds with our teachers, students, and colleagues that last a lifetime. These relationships often become the secret to successful careers. The moral of the story? Work hard and be kind.

What are your research interests, and are there any projects you are currently working on?

The American Viola

One of my missions is to find new and old repertoire for my students to perform. Recently, my first solo album was released by Albany Records entitled “The American Viola.” This historically significant recording of American music for solo viola and piano features the first commercial recordings of several works. These include the first American viola composition, written by Benjamin Cutter, a never-recorded work by well-known composer Walter Piston, and several works by early American female composers. You can find the album on all major retail music websites. It is very exciting!