Biography | pedersenviolin

Lizzy Pedersen has been playing violin since the age of three. They started in the Suzuki Method with Mihoko Hirata, then studied with Irv Eisenberg of the Philadelphia String Quartet. Lizzy continued their studies with Emma McGrath, now concertmaster of the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra. After that, Lizzy continued their studies at the University of Colorado Boulder, where they studied with Lina Bahn. Lizzy holds a B.A. in Music with Highest Honors from the University of Colorado Boulder.

Lizzy believes that any person can learn to play violin, as long as they are willing to put in the effort. They have been teaching violin since 2009 and running Pedersen Violin since 2018. Lizzy has a unique approach to teaching violin with a strong foundation in the Suzuki Method, Rolland String Pedagogy, and Mimi Zweig’s teacher workshop at Indiana University. Lizzy designs individualized approaches for each student.

Lizzy has served as substitute concertmaster with Octava Chamber Orchestra, Eastside Symphony, and Lake Union Civic Orchestra. They have served as principal second violin with Unbound Symphony and the Saratoga Orchestra.

Lizzy freelances with groups such as Northwest Sinfonietta, Federal Way Symphony, Opus 7, Emerald Ballet Theatre Orchestra, Salish Sea Orchestra, NOCCO, Seattle Metropolitan Chamber Orchestra, Northwest Chorale, Rainier Chorale, Seattle Chamber Orchestra, PLU Choral Union, Kulshan Chorus, Sound Ensemble, and the Great Bend Center for Music.

Lizzy performs solo violin music for events such as luncheons, weddings, church services, and funerals. They also provide chamber music for retirement parties, weddings, church services, and art galleries.

Lizzy has been playing Balkan music since 2010. They started in the band Kafana Republik. Now, they play with Învârtim, Orkestar RTW, and Zakuska.

Lizzy is also a Frisch & Denig Custom Chinrest Fitting Specialist.